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LI XIAOKE
Renowned artist and chairman of the Li Keran Art Foundation
Lai Zhigang is a person who can step into his paintings, which I believe is inseparable from his fervor and continuous effort. He captures the "accumulation" of ink in Chinese painting and allows that ink to emit his unique voice. This sense was actually created through his continuous perception in life, but more precisely, through his experience, which is constantly changing and rich.
I believe that Lai Zhigang has mastered the use of ink in Chinese painting, especially the technique of accumulated ink, making the ink emit its unique sound, as if the ink itself has a voice. This sense of sound actually comes from his continuous immersion in life, experiencing places like southern Anhui, Huangshan, Fuchun River, Xin'an River, and Huizhou residences. More importantly, he feels the profound changes and the relationship between mountains and clouds in the misty rain.
He doesn't just simply paint clouds and mountains; he transforms this relationship into the charm of ink, giving it a sense of space and depth. This has come from years of practice, driven by his relentless dedication. He repeatedly immerses himself in life to experience it and then practices and experiments in his paintings to capture the relationship between ink, mountains, and their structures, as well as the space, air, and the solidity of mountains versus the fluidity of clouds. This unique approach has resulted in his distinctive style.
Sometimes I evaluate his work and suggest that his ink paintings might need a title like "Ink Sound," as if the ink could make a sound. I think this is closely related to his persistent effort and relentless pursuit. When I write articles about him, I mention that after a class when feedback is given, he might disappear for a month. During that time, he doesn’t leave his house, continuously researching and exploring. When he finally presents his work, it always brings a new sensation and a fresh sense of expression.
In this way, he is constantly progressing. Lai Zhigang is someone who can truly delve into his work. At different stages of his painting, he can immerse himself deeply. I believe this is a crucial aspect of his success.