Lyrical Art: New Chinese Paintings

Art Institute of Minneapolis presents exhibition "Lyric art as poetry: recently acquired Chinese paintings".

The history of Chinese art is basically the history of painting. This is because in China, painting has always been considered the highest - the only form of visual art that is pure and lyrical enough to stand on an equal footing with poetry and contemplative thought.

In traditional Chinese culture, paintings were pleasing to the eye and, more importantly, an opportunity for learning and spiritual improvement. Viewing paintings was considered active participation, a “noble occupation” to be shared in the company of others. This approach - possible here in the public art museum - suggests that the value and significance of these works of art is not in the value of their material, but in contemplation and discussion among the audience.