Vital Energy: Wang Dongling and Xu Longsen

The concept of ‘vital line’ runs through both Chinese philosophy and traditional science; the medical merit of engaging acupuncture lines is a well-known example.

In the understanding of natural geography, vital lines are observed to form the moving spirit of landscapes. Under this principle, the art of painting and calligraphy regards the spontaneous flow of lines to be of pivotal importance for aesthetics.

For our booth at the Abu Dhabi Art Fair, Hanart TZ Gallery has curated a special exhibition featuring the work of two powerful Chinese contemporary artists: monumental and delicate ink landscapes by the master painter XU Longsen and works by eminent calligraphy painter WANG Dongling.

Additionally, Wang Dongling is being invited to undertake a live calligraphy performance at the ‘Beyond’ sector of the Abu Dhabi Art Fair on Wednesday 16^th November from 6.30 to 7.30pm. The painting will be displayed at the fair after the performance, and will be the first performance and exhibition of the artist’s calligraphy work in the United Arab Emirates.

Xu Longsen’s monumental landscape folding screen Thousand Mountains will also be featured in a special installation in the ‘Beyond’ sector of the Abu Dhabi Art fair. This is the second exhibition of Xu Longsen’s monumental landscapes in the United Arab Emirates. Xu’s previous show at Abu Dhabi Art received much acclaim and we are pleased to present his newest paintings to audiences this year.