Argentine artist finds inspiration in Chinese painting, calligraphy

BUENOS AIRES - Artist Martin Mazia was born in the Argentine capital, but you would never guess from looking at his artwork, which features Chinese-inspired ink wash paintings and calligraphy.

While studying traditional Chinese medicine, Mazia was introduced to the Chinese art forms by accident more than 15 years ago. "I discovered it one day and I went crazy, because it fascinates me and I began to study them every day," he told Xinhua.

There are various reasons for Mazia's enthusiasm. As for Chinese calligraphy, he called it a "very profound symbol of ancestral wisdom," and for painting, "it is like instant painting, but entails a lot of knowledge about life."

Mazia, who now teaches Chinese calligraphy and painting as well as the Chinese language, has exhibited his works in many countries including Argentina and Colombia. Those works are serving as a cultural link between Latin America and the East Asian country.

"I am an example of the fusion of these two cultures," said Mazia, explaining that his paintings and calligraphy borrow from age-old Chinese artistic traditions but are created with paint, acrylic, ink and varnish made in Argentina.

He often incorporates bright colors into his work, reflecting "the Argentine side" of his creations.

In addition to teaching at the Confucius Institutes in Buenos Aires and Medellin city in Colombia, Mazia takes part in the annual festivals of the local Chinese communities, including the Spring Festival and the Mid-Autumn Festival.

Making a livelihood as an artist isn't always easy, he said, but it was his calling.

"It is easier to be a movie director or football player or cook, but each person has his destiny and this is mine," said Mazia.