Ink Painting

1987

Length:123.7 x Width:60.1 (cm)

Su Feng-Nan (b. 1943, Tamsui) graduated from the National Taiwan Academy of Arts and earned an MFA from the San Francisco Art Institute. He has taught at Yilan High School, Fu Jen Catholic University, National Taiwan University of Arts, and Chang Jung Christian University. Su studied under eminent masters including Fu Chuan-Fu (1910-2007), Hu Ke-Min (1909-1992), Kao I-Feng (1915-1972), and Wang Chuang-Wei (1909-1998). Proficient in landscapes, bird-and-flower painting, and depictions of grasses and insects, he has received numerous honors, including first prize in the ink painting category at both the National Art Exhibition and the Taiwan Provincial Art Exhibition, first prize at the Taipei Fine Arts Exhibition, the 10th Chung-Shan Literary and Art Award, and the 18th Chinese Literary and Art Medal.
Sound of Spring Water and Shadows of Pines portrays a secluded valley with cascading springs, dense groves, and drifting mists. The right side of the composition is compact, while the left is open, creating a balanced yet varied scene through the arrangement of foreground, middle ground, and background, as well as the modulation of ink tones. In the foreground, a pine tree with a gnarled trunk spreads its branches in all directions, sheltering a stand of bamboo swaying in the wind. A small dwelling nestles amid clouds and bamboo shadows. The middle ground is veiled in curling mist, while the distant background reveals steep, towering mountains thick with vegetation, from whose valley a white waterfall plunges downward.
For the foliage, Su applies blue-green washes as a base, then layers dark ink to build depth. The treatment of clouds and mist reflects techniques learned from Fu Chuan-Fu, using staining to evoke the movement of vapor. The cliffs are rendered with dry-brush strokes to suggest their rugged texture. Throughout, the brushwork is masterful, with ink tones and moisture expertly balanced, capturing a vision of nature that is both serene and unrestrained.
The inscription reads: “In the secluded valley, the sound of spring water and the long shadows of pines embrace the dwelling. Painted by Su Feng-Nan at Wurong Hall in midsummer of the year dingmao (1987).”
Seals: “Su Feng-Nan”

Accession number:20170300003