Forum pays tribute to late master ink artist

Chen Banding (1876-1970) is regarded as a preeminent master of Chinese painting in the 20th century. His style blends northern and southern trends, evoking refined elegance and serene tranquility. The classical poise and subtle resonance of his strokes gave rise to one of the most dazzling fruits of Chinese ink art in the modern era.

A forum, recently held at the Beijing Fine Art Academy, where the Zhejiang-born artist worked for decades, in memory of the 150th anniversary of his birth, brought together scholars from various cultural institutions for discussions that explored Chen's life and career. The discussions focused on Chen growing up amid southern China's natural scenery and cultural depth, then relocating to the north to draw on its historical and cultural heritage in his work.

While working at the Beijing Fine Art Academy, Chen devoted much of his time to coordinating and organizing activities for artists from across the nation and those living in the capital.