Introduction to Hung Hsien
Hung Hsien, also known as Margaret Chang, is a talented artist with a unique style that blends traditional Chinese painting with abstract expressionism. Her artwork is characterized by natural forms, balanced space, and a freeform imagination. Hsien’s passion for art began at a young age, and she has spent her life perfecting her craft.
Early Life and Education
Born in Yangzhou in 1933, Hsien was raised in a family that valued art and culture. As a young girl, she loved to paint and was encouraged by her father to pursue her passion. She went on to study art at National Taiwan Normal University in Taipei, where she took private lessons with Master Puru, a renowned court painter. Master Puru taught Hsien the importance of being a good person and how it reflects in one’s artwork.
Development of Style
Hsien’s style began to take shape during her time in the United States, where she earned her MFA at Northwestern University. She was exposed to European and American art styles, which influenced her work. Her paintings from this period feature bold, expressive lines and vibrant colors. Hsien’s unique blend of traditional Chinese painting and abstract expressionism caught the attention of the Fifth Moon Group, a collective of artists who shared her interest in connecting past and present.
Artistic Process
Hsien’s artistic process is intuitive and spontaneous. She doesn’t rely on sketches or references, instead allowing her imagination to guide her brushstrokes. Her paintings often feature natural landscapes with dreamlike forms, delicate lines, and bold blots of ink. Hsien believes in the importance of balance and harmony in her compositions, which is reflected in her use of white space. She doesn’t view white space as "negative space" but rather as an essential component of her artwork.
Inspiration from Nature
Hsien finds inspiration in nature, particularly in the landscapes of Hornby Island in Canada, where she spent summers between 1974 and 1977. Her drawings of driftwood and trees from this period are featured in the retrospective exhibition, Between Worlds. Although her artwork is inspired by nature, it doesn’t reference specific scenes or objects. Instead, it allows her to tap into her imagination and create unique, abstract pieces.
The Concept of Qi
Hsien’s artistic process is also influenced by the concept of qi, which refers to the flow and force driving her creative vision. Qi is a complex concept that encompasses the idea of energy, spirit, and life force. Hsien’s friend and colleague, Dr. B U.K. Li, describes her artwork as "landscapes of the mind," which reflects her ability to channel her qi onto paper.
Legacy and Recognition
Between Worlds, Hsien’s first retrospective exhibition, features a comprehensive collection of her artwork, including paintings, drawings, and personal artifacts. The exhibition is a testament to Hsien’s unique style and contribution to the art world. An accompanying essay collection will be published this summer, making her life and artwork more accessible to art and art history fans.
Conclusion
Hung Hsien’s artwork is a reflection of her unique journey as a Chinese artist in the United States. Her blend of traditional Chinese painting and abstract expressionism has created a distinctive style that is both captivating and thought-provoking. Through her artwork, Hsien has found a way to synthesize her cultural heritage with her American experience, creating a legacy that will continue to inspire and influence future generations of artists.
