Xi Dejin (Shiy De-jinn)(1923 - 1981)
Daffodils
ink and colour on paper, hanging scroll
executed in 1979
136x35 cm
(53 1/2 x 13 3/4 in)
LITERATURE
p. 59, Artco Magazine -Classic Arts, Issue 199, April 2009
PROVENANCE
Mr. Lu Jinghua (Gufeng), Principal of Taichung Da Ming Secondary School, Friend of the Artist

In 1980, Xi Dejin published an article, The Experiment of Modern Ink, in which he mentioned that, “the notion of Chinese paintings transforming into literati paintings is for self-amusement. The greatest aesthetics is the peaceful state of mind”. Daffodils is a work executed in his later years. The composition is neat with a plain use of colour. The blooming of narcissus in the foreground makes a contrast with the rock in the background.

Xi was taught by Pang Xunqin and Lin Fengmian, who were the first Chinese generation to study western art. He moved to Taiwan in the 1940s when modern paintings became a popular topic. Xi later on went to America and France in the 1950s and 1960s respectively to study the essence of western art. After such experience, Xi realized that Chinese art has its mature and profound system. In contrast with the contemporary western art, Chinese art develops slowly within its meticulous system. He returned to Taiwan with enthusiasm. Stimulated by Chinese and western cultures, Xi creates with true emotions and life experiences. The same article mentioned above stated his attitude toward art is to “depict the true landscape as what is seen, paint the local objects around you in the reality”. He believes that less is superior than more as additional objects and strokes create confusion in the ink paintings. This is the beauty of simple. Daffodils is one of the best examples to demonstrate Xi’s dedication to art and simplicity.