Chinese Painting Xieyi

Introduction

Chinese painting is an ancient artistic tradition, rich in styles and techniques. Among these styles, 写意 Xiě Yì painting occupies a special place. The term literally means "to write" (写 Xiě) and "sense" or "intention" (意 Yì). Unlike realistic styles, Xiě Yì painting focuses on capturing the essence and spirit of the subjects represented, often with great economy of means.

The famous master of Chinese painting, Zhang Daqian (张大千 Zhāng Dàqiān), explained that Xiě Yì involved going beyond the external appearance to express the soul and character of beings. This style is both an artistic expression and a philosophy, emphasizing spontaneity and intuition.

Characteristics of Xiě Yì Painting

• A spontaneous style: The strokes are rapid, sometimes completed in just a few minutes. However, this speed does not signify amateurism; rather, it reflects exceptional technical mastery.
• The importance of essence: The painter does not focus on realistic details but seeks to convey the emotion and vital energy of the subject.
• Influence of calligraphy: Xiě Yì painting shares many techniques with the art of calligraphy, particularly the use of fluid and expressive strokes.

Essential Materials and Supports

1. Absorbent paper 宣纸 Xuān Zhǐ

Xuān Zhǐ paper, also known as "rice paper," is renowned for its high absorption capacity. This allows ink and colors to diffuse naturally, creating subtle effects and unique gradients.

2. Brushes (毛笔 Máo Bǐ)

• The large brush 狼毫 Láng Háo: Made with wolf hair, it is rigid and ideal for painting robust elements such as branches or rocks.
• The mixed brush 兼毫 Jiān Háo: A blend of rigid and soft hairs, perfect for representing delicate patterns such as bamboo and orchids.
• The large brush 羊毫 Yáng Háo: Made with goat hair, it is extremely flexible and allows for ample movements and beautiful gradients.

3. Ink and Colors

Black ink (墨 Mò) is omnipresent in Chinese painting. In the Xiě Yì style, it can be used alone or combined with colored pigments to enrich compositions. The artist often applies gradients of ink or color, ranging from the darkest at the tip of the brush to the lightest at its base.

The Xiě Yì Technique: Simplicity and Mastery

Despite its apparent simplicity, Xiě Yì painting requires long apprenticeship. Here are the main steps in creating a work:

1. Preparation of a draft: The artist often draws a preliminary sketch on a separate sheet to plan the composition.
2. Constant moistening of the brush: The brush must remain soaked in ink or paint to ensure the fluidity of the strokes.
3. Application in a single gesture: Each stroke is drawn in a continuous movement, without rework or correction. The balance between pressure and inclination of the brush determines the thickness and intensity of the stroke.
4. Gradient effects: Variations in shade on the brush allow for expressive nuances and harmonious transitions.

Classic Themes in Xiě Yì Painting

Traditional subjects include elements of nature, often symbolic in Chinese culture:

• Bamboo (竹 Zhú), symbols of integrity and resilience.
• Plum blossoms (梅花 Méi Huā), representing perseverance in the face of trials.
• Orchids (兰花 Lán Huā), evocative of elegance and refinement.
• Mountains and rivers (山水 Shān Shuǐ), witnesses to the harmony between man and nature.

Conclusion

Xiě Yì painting is much more than just an artistic style. It is a form of spiritual expression, where each stroke testifies to the connection between the artist and the subject. While the execution may seem rapid, it is based on rigorous discipline, a deep knowledge of the subjects represented, and technical mastery acquired after years of practice.

Learning Xiě Yì painting is embracing an art where intention takes precedence over perfection, where each movement of the brush is a manifestation of harmony and beauty.