Anyone with an interest in the art of traditional realist painting would do well to visit “The 6th NTD International Figure Painting Competition Finalists Exhibition” at the Salmagundi Club in New York City, where over 60 oil paintings are on display until Jan. 19.
Reviving Realism in Painting
In an interview with The Epoch Times’ sister media NTD, accomplished sculptor and jury chair of the competition Prof. Zhang Kunlun explained why realistic figure painting is important: “People are always at the center of activity in society. Painting the human figure is the hardest. It can best test one’s abilities. There is also a spiritual perspective. Various faiths say that divine beings created human beings in their own images. Therefore, using authentic academic realist painting techniques is a way to show respect for humanity.”
The artworks in the “NIFPC Finalists’ Exhibition” can be admired not only for the artists’ skills but for their personal character. “If an artist wants to produce good artwork, the artist must first be a good person, a person with a higher moral standard than others. When one creates art, one must continuously purify oneself,” Zhang said.
“Art can hasten either the elevation or degeneration of people’s moral standards. Good artwork can broaden people’s minds and make them nobler people,” Zhang said.
“A realist painter acts as a bridge to the revival of the traditional art of realist oil painting and the restoration of the glory of fine art. Persisting with traditional fine art in today’s society is itself something remarkable!” he said.
Award winners of the over $25,000 worth prizes, including the $10,000 Gold award, will be announced at a special ceremony on Jan. 18. An exhibition catalog will be released on Jan. 19.
