Chrysanthemum 1922

This ‘Chrysanthemum’, by Kuang Xü, was created using ink and color on paper. It's interesting how the artist has used this bold red background, almost like a ground, for the delicate white rendering of the flower and leaves. It's a bit like a reverse drawing, as if the artist has taken away the color to reveal the image. The texture of the paper is evident, creating a soft, almost tactile feel to the piece. The white ink, or maybe it's a resist technique, allows the red to peek through, giving the flower a subtle depth. Look closely, and you can see variations in the ink, where it's thicker in some areas and thinner in others, adding a sense of movement and vitality. This piece reminds me of Matisse’s cut-outs in its simplified forms and bold color choices, both artists embracing the beauty of simplicity and the power of color to evoke emotion. It’s a reminder that art is an ongoing conversation, each artist building upon the ideas of those who came before, while also forging their own unique path.