Xieyi artist's paintings on show a reflection of era

Liu Haiyong studied classic Chinese painting at two prestigious art academies at home, China Academy of Art in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, and Central Academy of Fine Arts in Beijing, which value cultural traditions and were pioneers in introducing international art into the curriculums.

He specializes in the creation of the flower-and-bird genre of painting, done in the loose, semi-abstract xieyi style which prioritizes a philosophical touch over accurate depictions.

Wind over the World, Liu's exhibition at the National Art Museum of China in Beijing, is dedicated to his endeavors in the field of xieyi.

In his work, Liu steps aside from the traditional microscopic world of plants and small animals. He instead has focused on the presentation of extensive views.

For example, he has produced a series of paintings of over 10 meters in length to hail the dynamics of poplar trees which are on display. He also depicts bushes of blooming sunflowers as a way to symbolize those luminaries with high morality in the Chinese history. His output echoes the state of mind of people today.

The exhibition closes on July 27.