Hong Kong local artist Chen Fushan (1905-1995) is recognized as a pioneer of modern art in Hong Kong. He was famous for his delicate and realistic watercolor landscapes in the early stages of his painting career, earning him the title of “Watercolor King.” In his later works, he became more free-spirited and bold in his use of colors, depicting whimsical and vibrant dreamlike scenes. He developed a unique artistic style that transcended the categorization of artistic genres, while also complementing his energetic personality.
This “Joyful Tonight: The Art of Chan Fuk-shan” is the flagship exhibition of the Hong Kong Arts Centre’s 45th anniversary. Drawing inspiration from Shakespeare’s famous quote “All the world’s a stage,” it explores Chan’s legendary artistic journey through a thematic study. This includes his keen portrayal of everyday urban drama and identity, his love for narrative and storytelling, and his unwavering spirit demonstrated in the turbulent 20th century.
Chen Fushan is known for his imaginative landscapes, figures, and animal paintings, spanning from Western modernism to Chinese ink painting, from television to pop music, from fairy tales to mythology. His unique visual language showcases the dramatic social changes that occurred in Hong Kong during the 20th century under the forces of colonialism and modernization, and tells the urban experience of public and private, local and global, real and imagined.
The exhibition is divided into four sections: “Artists and Art Critics”, “Harmony in Song and Dance: The Modern Life of Hong Kong”, “Fortune and Virtue: An Artistic Journey”, and “A Wonderful World Seen Through the Eyes”. It covers the works of the artist from the 1950s to the 1980s, showcasing different visual expressions in different stages of creation, presenting a kaleidoscope-like artistic trajectory. This includes his early realistic watercolor landscape paintings, as well as his later dreamy abstract series, leading the audience into Chen’s imaginative and fantastical stage.
Chen Fushan passed away in 1995, and his memorial exhibition was held at the Hong Kong Arts Center in 1996. After 26 years, audiences will once again have the opportunity to see this thematic exhibition by the legendary artist. In addition, this Saturday (January 7, 2023, at 4:00 PM), the curator will lead a tour of the exhibition and share the stories behind the works. Remember to seize this opportunity!
Joyful Tonight: Chen Fushan’s Art Flagship Exhibition
Date: From now until January 18th
Time: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Location: Pao Galleries, Hong Kong Arts Centre
Image source and learn more: Hong Kong Arts Centre
