Li Kuchan

Li Kuchan painted in the spontaneous xieyi style under the strong influence of his teacher, Qi Baishi (1863-1957) along with elements from ancient masters Liang Kai (12th century), Xu Wei (1521-1593), Bada Shanren (1626-ca. 1705), Shitao (1638-1720) and Zhao Zhiqian (1829-1884). He also studied sketching under Xu Beihong (1895-1953). Born in Gaotang, Shandong, Li Kuchan came from a poor family and had to support himself through school. His original name was Li Ying. The name Kuchan came from a fellow student. Ku, bitter or sorrow, describes the difficult life he has led, while chan relates to Li's style of spontaneous xieyi pinting which is associated with the Southern (or chan) School of painting. He excelled in the painting of birds and flowers. In1930 Li Kuchan received an appointment at the Hangzhou Art Academy in 1930. He resigned during the Japanese invasion and painted in seclusion. Jailed for his patriotism, he remained firm to his conviction. After the war he moved to Beijing and taught at the Central Art Academy. A much respected artist, Li Kuchan was the subject of three educational films about his method of painting.