Master's stroke

The show Loneliness of Wild Ducks marks Lin Fengmian's contributions to modernizing Chinese painting and fine-arts education.[Photo provided to China Daily]

Lin was nourished by post-impressionism, fauvism and expressionism. These movements affected his build-up of rich colors and helped him to form a distinctive composition style that features many blocks in a fine arrangement. He blended Western elements with his understanding of Chinese culture.

It is said that on Lin's first day at the French art school, Yenccesse told him that, as a Chinese, he should first understand the value of Chinese art before learning about modern art. The French sculptor told Lin to visit some oriental museums in Paris and explore the treasures of his home culture.

Lin sourced inspiration from ancient Chinese traditions, such as making ceramics and lacquer ware. He also attempted to present the elegance and tranquility of Eastern aesthetic philosophy.

Wang Mingming, director of the Beijing Fine Arts Academy, says Lin knew both Chinese and Western cultures and therefore was able to find what they have in common.

"He expressed what he felt, whatever he worked with - be it oil, ink, brush or watercolor," Wang says.

"The interaction of colors, the strength of the lines and the mobility of compositions in his paintings strike us so forcefully that we share both his artistic zeal and his sadness."

Lin's innovation of Chinese art education helped several famed artists, including Zao Wou-ki, Chu Teh-chun, Wu Guanzhong and Li Keran. They all studied under Lin's direction at the Hangzhou Fine Arts School.