Chen Jialing: Capturing the Spirit of Solitude 
\"Whether I'm aware of it or not, drawing is also a process of self-cultivation,\" says Chen Jialing, a master of the Shanghai School of traditional ink painting.
Born in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, in 1937, Chen has been painting the world around him in Shanghai for over six decades. His innovative approach blends free-spirited lines with traditional Chinese ink techniques, bringing life and emotion to his art.
During Shanghai's quarantine in 2022, while many of us were scrolling endlessly through our feeds, Chen was immersing himself in creativity. He produced 50 plum blossom paintings and 50 calligraphy works based on ancient poems celebrating the resilient flower.
Why plum blossoms? 
Because they stand strong against the cold, blossoming even in the harshest winters. Chen embraces this unique spirit, capturing the essence of perseverance and hope in his artwork—a message that resonates with us all, especially during challenging times.
His work reminds us that even in isolation, we can find beauty and strength. So next time you're feeling the chill of solitude, think of Chen Jialing's plum blossoms, standing tall and blooming against the odds.
Reference(s):
The Art Beat | Chen Jialing: Soft fragrance from the brush tip
cgtn.com
