On the occasion of the 160th birthday of the Chinese artist Qi Baishi, the Center for Visual Arts Berlin presents the exhibition "Great Aspirations – Qi Baishi’s Artistic World“.

Qi Baishi (1864 in Xiangtan to 1957 in Beijing) was and still is one of the most renowned and respected artistic personalities in China. He came from a peasant family and only discovered poetry and painting at the age of 30, which he initially learned on his own. Later, he traveled extensively throughout China and settled in Beijing at the age of 60, where he reformed traditional Chinese ink painting in his later works by combining and developing various painting styles. During this time, he gained national and international fame and recognition. He became the Chairman of the Chinese Artists Association, received the "International Peace Prize," and was awarded the title of "Artist of the People.“

Qi's painting is free, natural, and uninhibited. It oscillates between observation and expression, moving with ease between the abstract and the concrete, encompassing both the smallest details and the vast expanse of nature. It deeply embodies the "world in a flower" essence of Eastern art. Qi's paintings are cleverly designed and composed with remarkable skill. With just a few strokes, he could transform the joy of nature into a vivid and contemplative work of art. His paintings require no explanation, as they depict what people universally recognize and feel. His artistic methods are unique and innovative.

Opening: September 8, 2023, at 5:00 PM (free admission)

Exhibition Duration: September 9 – October 10, 2023

Opening Hours: Tue-Fri 09:30 AM – 04:30 PM, Sat-Sun 12:00 PM – 06:00 PM

Admission: €5 / €3 (reduced)

Center for Visual Arts Berlin

Unter den Eichen 101, 12203 Berlin, Germany

Organizers: Beijing Fine Art Academy, China International Exhibition Agency, Center for Visual Arts Berlin

Co-organizers: Qi Baishi International Research Center, Beijing CIEA Danqing Exhibition Ltd., hesign Berlin

Chief Curators: Wu Hongliang, Jumping He

Executive Curator: Wang Yanan

Exhibition Organizers: Chen Qian, Zhan Fayue, Zhu Lin, Wang Zhaowei, Dai Jun

Exhibition Coordinators: Lyu Dong, Li Yunyun, Li Tiantian, Wang Jingbo

Exhibition Design: hesign

Public Education: Tong Xinxin

Curatorial Committee Members: Liu Baohua, Wu Hongliang, Jumping He, Zhang Yinglin, Du Junshan, Guo Baojun, Mo Xiaosong, Yin Peng, Lyu Xiao, Chen Bin, Wang Yanan, Xue Liang

The works shown are authentic reproductions.