In March 2025, the China National Academy of Painting welcomed a distinguished guest: Emeritus Professor Martin Joseph Powers from the University of Michigan, who is also a Chaired Visiting Professor at Peking University.
During his visit, Professor Powers explored the studio of renowned Chinese artist Liu Wanming and was deeply impressed by his painting \”The Charm of Ink Painting Album.\”
\”Liu Wanming is totally in command of both the Chinese tradition and the European realist and naturalist tradition and fuses them, as the word ‘Zhong Xi Rong He’ (Fusion of East and West) was meant to imply,\” Professor Powers remarked.
Liu’s art embodies the philosophy of \”Read, then paint,\” merging the precision of the Song Dynasty with the fluidity of the Yuan Dynasty. Specializing in depictions of flowers, birds, and wildlife, he employs traditional Chinese techniques while capturing nature with an observant eye.
Whether through grand-scale works or delicate sketches, Liu’s creations reflect a seamless harmony between humanity and nature, bridging cultural divides and showcasing the universal beauty of the natural world.
Professor Powers’ recognition of Liu Wanming’s unique fusion of artistic traditions highlights the growing appreciation for cross-cultural exchanges in the art world, inspiring young artists globally to explore and blend diverse influences in their own creative journeys.
