HONG LING (CHINA, B.1955)

Hong Ling retrospective exhibition is recently held at the Brunei Gallery, the School of Oriental and African Studies at the University of London in 2016.

Having been living in seclusion in the Yellow Mountains in China for more than 30 years, Hong Ling has learnt to reflect on the meaning of art, and emulate the inner spirit of nature. Hong was deeply inspired by the Chinese landscape master Huang Binhong. In an interview, he stated that" The ink work of Huang Binhong makes trees, mountains and grassy areas become part of a whole, other-worldly realm that breathes with life. His fluid, refined brushstrokes achieve a range of subtle effects, from wet to dry, broad to narrow". He puts emphasis on the expression of spirit through form and technique. In Rhythms of Bamboo (Lot 397), Hong utilises the richness of oil paint to enhance the varying depths of perspective, adding dimension to his composition. The cool colour palette while vividly portrays a wintery landscape, also depicts the artist's inner sentiments, bringing forth a sombre and subtle atmosphere.