In 2024, an academic research paper titled “Cloud-infused artistry: unraveling the enigmatic bond between destiny and oil painting” emerged on CPCI, CNKI, and Google Scholar, shedding light on the intriguing relationship between destiny and clouds. This study delves into how the amalgamation of the Chinese character for “destiny” with representations of clouds unveils a profound connection between human existence and the natural world. Through the expressive medium of oil painting, the research endeavors to capture the intangible forces shaping human life, transcending mere visual elements to reveal the essence of our being. Drawing insights from Chinese cultural history and contemporary Western art, the paper explores the dynamic interplay between fate and individuals while contemplating the impact of environmental, societal, and cultural shifts on personal destinies.
Huaqi Liu, a Chinese artist based in Maryland, dedicates himself to capturing captivating depictions of clouds in his art. In his Cloud Series, comprising 19 distinct pieces, Liu translates his ideas about “fate” and “existence” into paintings. Utilizing oil on wood panels or canvas, he skillfully captures the fleeting beauty and ever-changing forms of clouds. He chose clouds as the creative theme because “Clouds embody the transient nature of existence, reminding us that no matter our path, transience is inevitable.” In Simplified Chinese Characters, there’s a “cloud” character within the “fate” character.
The artwork above intricately weaves the narrative of time. The white Chinese rice paper elegantly simulates the emergence of clouds over time. Meanwhile, the growth rings etched onto the wood panel, accrued over years, serve as tangible markers of temporal progression. As time unfolds, wood transforms into paper under human hands. The fusion of these elements offers a poignant reflection on the fluidity of temporal change. Moreover, the subtle tears in the rice paper, juxtaposed against the rigid structure of the growth rings, evoke a captivating interplay of form and texture, inviting viewers to engage their imagination within the spaces between.
Liu’s artistic focus extends beyond merely exploring fate and delves into our environmental surroundings. For example, the painting below uses a diverse array of mediums such as watercolor, Chinese ink, and oil on canvas, he intricately weaves together elements to portray the essence of a rainy day. Liu’s process involves saturating the canvas with water, allowing the black and red Chinese graphite powder, mixed with water-based pigments, to spread across its surface organically. Subtle dry brush strokes then evoke the sensation of rainfall, capturing the melancholy ambiance of a gloomy day with a sense of fluidity and spontaneity. Through these deliberate choices of media and techniques, Liu not only portrays the tumultuous nature of dark clouds but also conveys his deep-seated concern for environmental changes and his profound respect for the natural world.
Beside, he also creates a collection that highlights the concept of ”frame in window.” each cloud is presented uniquely in each frame, as if people are observing them through different windows from various perspectives.
Huaqi Liu’s impact extends beyond his contributions to fine art painting; he actively engages in meaningful projects to foster artistic education and collaboration. One notable initiative he participated in during 2021-2022 was the “Blooming Rainbow” project—a collaborative effort involving children aged 5-15 in Baltimore and South Korea to create abstract paintings together. In this innovative program, children express their emotions, impulses, and favorite subjects through scribbles, which are then exchanged with artists in Baltimore and Korea. These artists add layers of color to the scribbles, resulting in vibrant and dynamic abstract artworks. Through their participation in the project, children explore their creativity and learn about the sister cities of Baltimore, Maryland USA, and Changwon, South Korea, as well as abstract art concepts and artists. Huaqi Liu played a vital role as a coordinated member of this program, enriching the educational experience and fostering cross-cultural connections through art.
Through his skilled techniques and philosophy, Liu invites the audience to embark on a journey of introspection, inviting them to immerse themselves in the ever-changing forms of clouds and contemplate the interconnectedness of life, nature, and human experience. With each stroke of his brush, Liu captures the essence of clouds and sparks a dialogue about the transient nature of existence and the enduring beauty of the natural world.
Published by: Martin De Juan
