Part I: The Evolution and Transmission of Tradition

Modern Chinese painting has developed through the transmission of an enormous tradition. Traditional painting, as represented by literati painting, existed as a major subject for modern painters to overcome, while simultaneously being a constant source of creation for these painters. For example, Wu Changshuo and the Shanghai School developed a vigorous painting style that incorporated elements of epigraphs. On the other hand, Pan Tianshou rediscovered and studied idiosyncratic painters such as Bada Shanren and Shi Tao, who were active from the end of the Ming to the beginning of the Qing dynasty in about the 17th to 18th century. This part introduces how modern Chinese painters created their art through studying traditional painting styles.

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