Verse meets brush in timeless dialogue

The exhibition also gathers exquisite artworks inspired by the Confucian classic Shijing (The Book of Songs) and poems by famous Tang poets Li Bai, Du Fu and Wang Wei.

One section focuses on plum blossoms, symbols of the scholars' moral integrity. "In the Song Dynasty, scholar-artists elevated plum blossom imagery to new heights," Dong says.

Tao Yuanming, a great poet and essayist in the Eastern Jin Dynasty (317-420), famously described Peach Blossom Spring in an essay and a poem as a secluded utopia accidentally discovered by a fisherman.

"We bring together paintings inspired by the very literary theme, demonstrating how different artists visually interpret the same text. It reveals the intimate and creative dialogue between literature and painting and helps people better understand the text," Dong says.

A prime example is the long scroll painting of Peach Blossom Spring by Ming scholar Wen Zhengming.

"To fully understand it, one must read it alongside the original text. Each unfolding scene serves as a visual annotation, matching the classic line by line," Dong says.

To appreciate traditional Chinese painting, Dong suggests the audience ponder three key questions.

"What is depicted? Look beneath the surface to uncover symbolic meanings. For example, Nanshan Mountain means longevity in Chinese culture," he says.

"How is it painted? Think about the composition, brushwork techniques and use of blank space. How well is it done? Form your own opinion about the artwork."

He says through repeated viewing, discussion and reflection, the viewer's understanding deepens with fresh insights.