Guarding the Forests, Li Xiongcai

The Lingnan School embraces the spirits of renovation and creativity, and thus enjoys a special status in the history of Chinese painting of the 20th century. Li Xiongcai, a representative figure of the school, was nourished by traditions while developing his own language.

Trees, pines in particular, stones and waterfalls are three elements that Li constantly used in his paintings. He was especially celebrated for his proficiency in depicting pine trees. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]