Chinese painters let brushes speak on Thai scenery, culture
CHINESE National Artist Cai Zhixin led a group of top Chinese painters to Bangkok over the weekend to create masterpieces inspired by Thailand's beautiful scenery.
The fruits of the one-week visit to cultural heritage sites and landmarks in Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Chiang Mai and Lampang will be on display at the exhibition entitled “Thailand through the Dragon’s Brushes: Chinese artists paint Thai scenes” opening on Friday at 6pm at CentralWorld.
The project, organised by The Nation, China Daily and the Chinese Culture and Arts Association in China, celebrates the 40th anniversary of Sino-Thai diplomatic relations.
“I’ve travelled to many places, but not Thailand. I’m very excited about Thai culture. Thailand has an abundance of culture. Thais believe in Buddhism. That shows their kindness and also reflects their high morality.
“Thailand has a lot of beautiful scenery – many plants, animals and temples – which reflect the rich culture. This visit, especially to temples, will inspire us a lot. I hope the friendship between China and Thailand will be deeper,” Cai Zhixin told The Nation at Now Studio in Siam Square.
The group gave an exclusive interview to The Nation and Now Channel, The Nation’s partner in the project.
“The artists will visit World Heritage sites in Ayutthaya, beautiful temples and charming cultural attractions in Chiang Mai, the Elephant Conservation Centre in Lampang and Bangkok’s landmarks,” said Pana Janviroj, president of Nation News Network and Asia News Network.
The artists will express their impressions through their sketches and paintings done at the actual sites.
“This is the first time Chinese artists will be actually painting in Thailand. They have held exhibitions here. Through the paintings, this is a good opportunity to deepen the relationship between China and Thailand,” said Tan Yan of Hong Kong-based China Daily.
Some artists brought their paintings created in their homeland and inspired by Thai culture and landmarks to the show. Among the highlights are paintings depicting the Grand Palace, Thai dancers and Thai warriors riding elephants.
They also brought their signature works depicting beautiful landscapes in China, vibrant scenic spots in Hong Kong and classic Chinese dancers to the show.
On display will be more than 80 paintings reflecting both the legacies of Chinese art and charming Thailand heritage and culture.
Besides Cai, other visiting artists were Cui Zhi’an, Song Yuming, Yang Xun, Kang Shuzeng, Feng Xuewen, Wang Jaixun, Kuku Chai Bukuk and Tang Qing. Zhao Qingguo could not join the trip, but sent her paintings to be displayed here.
The gallery goes through Sunday.
