From October 1 to October 10, 2019, Sun Lie’s “Chinese Figure Paintings” exhibition was held at Tianjin University. Created by Sun Lie, the director of the Wang Xuezhong Art Research Institute of Tianjin University, “Zulong Springs up from Clouds” and “Tianjin University’s Eighteen” are two major works, which have been designated as permanent exhibits. Additionally, Sun Lie’s other 56 figure paintings with ink and wash, featuring teachers and students of Tianjin University, were on display.
With a theme of 18 academic leaders who have made great contributions to the development of Tianjin University, “Tianjin University’s Eighteen” places the academic leaders in the Peiyang Pavilion, which symbolizes the great spirit of TJU. It was finished after processing the original materials, including the styles of 18 teachers, their different ages, stature, clothing, postures and expressions. It makes the majestic stone hall prominent and highlights the contrast of different vivid characters. Crabapple Flowers at Tianjin University, the University Flower, builds a bridge for people, giving a sense to the spirit of the natural world, offering an infinite imaginary space.
“Zulong Springs up from Clouds” is triumphant for its natural scenery of vast clouds and seas, bizarre peaks, huge rocks and the Great Wall, which seems as though it is passing through time and space to the glorious future. This work portrays the Great Wall in the Ji District of Tianjin, combining the conventional scenes of mountains and water with new painting methods, which has far-reaching effects. On the one hand, it demonstrates the determination of teachers and students of Tianjin University to achieve the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation, while it also represents the persistent pursuit of the scientific and innovative spirit of Tianjin University. It is borrowed by the 13th National Games, which is displayed at the National Games Village and praised as the “totem of champion” by the organizing committee and provincial-level teams.
The 56 figure paintings with ink and brush of Tianjin University students, the second part of this exhibition, are works with both realistic and aesthetic appeal. The essence and images of characters are harmoniously blended. Sun Lie shows the unique style and features of Tianjin University students in the era of the great rejuvenation of China.
Chen Bo, who is the relative of the former President Li Shusen, and Cao Fengzhen, Wang Xuezhong’s wife, as well as representatives from Art Museum of Tsinghua University, Tianjin Academy of Social Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin Fine Arts Institute, Tianjin University of Commerce, Tianjin Academy of Painting, China Education and Training Alliance, and Tianya Art Network attended the opening ceremony.
By: Wei Yu
Editors: Harlan Haverback, Sun Xiaofang
