Qi Baishi

Qi Baishi was a Chinese painter, noted for the whimsical, often playful style of his watercolor works. Born to a peasant family from Xiangtan, Hunan, Qi became a carpenter at 14, and learned to paint by himself. After he turned 40, he traveled, visiting various scenic spots in China. After 1917 he settled in Beijing. Qi was the master of many styles of painting, but he was especially known for his ink paintings of flowers, animals, insects, and landscapes. He used simple strokes and bright colors to create lively and expressive images. He also wrote poems and carved seals to accompany his paintings. He was one of the most influential and popular painters of the 20th century in China. He was also a patriotic and philanthropic person, who donated his works to support various causes. He was elected president of the China Artists Association in 1953. He died of old age in Beijing in 1957. He left behind many traces of his art and wisdom, as well as numerous students who continue his legacy.