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To celebrate the Lunar New Year of the Dragon in 2024, Fo Guang Shan (FGS) Hsi Lai Temple has invited renowned Chan painter Xingjie Chen to exhibit over 20 Chinese paintings centered around dragons at the Fo Guang Yuan Hsi Lai Art Gallery from January 24 to March 24. The exhibition features familiar idiomatic stories and imagery such as "Dragon and Horse Spirit" and "Adding Eyes to the Dragon," along with Buddhist allegories like "Hibernation Dragon Listening to Sutras," "Dragon Subduing Arhat," and "Avalokitesvara's Transformation of the Dragon," showcasing the evolving depiction of dragons throughout Chinese history.
Xingjie Chen shared his artistic journey, recalling his first visit to the United States in 1996, where he visited Hsi Lai Temple and personally interacted with Venerable Master Hsing Yun and other venerables, deepening his connection with Buddhism. This is his third exhibition at the Fo Guang Yuan Hsi Lai Art Gallery, following his inaugural show in 2004. While his previous exhibitions focused on Chan culture, this year's show honors the revered Dragon Year in Chinese culture, as requested by Ven. Hui Dong, the abbot of Hsi Lai Temple.
Chen described his creative process, starting with gathering over 60 stories and legends about dragons and selecting more than 20 representative themes to portray the diversity of dragon culture. In the month leading up to the exhibition, he dedicated nearly 20 hours a day to his artwork, overcoming various challenges along the way.
"Creation is a journey from clear vision to open possibilities," explained Chen. He starts with meticulous research and a sketch but avoids rigidly adhering to it, allowing the creative process to evolve naturally. This dynamic approach results in vibrant and powerful works that he presents to the public.
Despite the influence of Western art during his time in the United States, Chen remains dedicated to traditional Chinese painting, driven by his passion for its centuries-old heritage. He believes that Chan painting allows for deeper self-expression and has gained recognition and attention over the years. Looking ahead, even in his sixties, Chen is highly motivated. He plans to complete a series of paintings featuring Guanyin (Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva), aiming to provoke deeper contemplation on Buddhism, Chan philosophy, and art for the public.
(Photos Provided by Hsi Lai Temple)
