Admire Huang Zhijian's unique Lingnan-style paintings

Infused with a touch of contemporary spirit, the works of esteemed Lingnan School painter Huang Zhijian (1919-1994) on loan from the Guangdong Museum of Art have taken center stage at a new exhibition at the He Xiangning Art Museum.

A photo of Huang Zhijian is on display along with books and magazines collected by him at the exhibition at He Xiangning Art Museum. Photos by Cao Zhen

Stepping into the exhibition halls, visitors are transported to a realm where nature’s beauty unfolds in radiant hues, inviting all to embark on a journey of sensory delight. Huang’s flower-and-bird paintings display innovation in brushwork, ink techniques and composition, imbuing his paintings with vigor and a contemporary twist.

Visitors admire a painting created by Huang Zhijian in 1982 at the exhibition at He Xiangning Art Museum.

While many Chinese painters leave blank spaces within the composition in traditional Chinese paintings to show the aesthetic of understatement, Huang preferred to fill the entire composition without leaving blank spaces. His particular style of painting creates a sense of richness in the artworks, rendering a more intricate and dense visual experience.

A painting created by Huang Zhijian in 1986.

The exhibition also offers a rare opportunity to witness the artist’s arduous exploration through the display of his drafts, shedding light on the evolution of his unique artistic style.

A painting created by Huang Zhijian in 1973. 

A Guangzhou native, Huang graduated from Lingnan University in Hong Kong and had studied with masters including Zhao Shao’ang, Huang Shaoqiang and Gao Jianfu, to name a few. Given the profound impact that these masters had on Huang Zhijian’s artistic development, the exhibition also takes the opportunity to showcase paintings by Gao Jianfu, Gao Qifeng and Huang Shaoqiang.

Visitors admire a painting created by Huang Shaoqiang in 1931.

With a passion for book collecting and a lifelong dedication to Lingnan School paintings, Huang Zhijian amassed an extraordinary collection of books and fine art magazines. Following his passing, his family generously donated this collection to the Guangdong Museum of Art. At this exhibition, visitors have the privilege of marveling at these treasured literary and artistic artifacts, gaining insight into Huang’s meticulous research on art.

A painting created by Huang Zhijian in 1989.

Huang served as deputy director of the Guangzhou Fine Art Institute. He believed that “innovation is the very essence of the Lingnan School.” As visitors explore the exhibition, they cannot help but be captivated by his remarkable achievements in both art and academia.

Dates: Until Aug. 10

Hours: 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m., closed Mondays

Venue: He Xiangning Art Museum, Nanshan District (何香凝美术馆)

Metro: Line 1 to OCT Station (华侨城站), Exit C