Community Event: “Art Education Classroom”: The Charming Seasons - Mr. Zhi Mi Li’s 24 Solar Terms

On October 28, the Huangpu District Library hosted a special lecture titled “The Charming Seasons - Mr. Zhi Mi Li’s 24 Solar Terms,” guided by the Huangpu District Cultural and Tourism Bureau. The event took place on the 9th floor of the library.

Mr. Zhi Mi Li, a professional painter and graduate of the China Academy of Art, was the featured speaker. He is the author of several books, including Mr. Zhi Mi's Heart Paintings, Always Knowing Each Other, and You Come from Your Hometown, all of which are included in the library of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.

Growing up in a rural setting, Mr. Zhi Mi was deeply influenced by the changing seasons, which shaped his connection to nature. His artistic journey led him to specialize in ink painting, where he captures the warmth and details of everyday life. In this lecture, he shared insights about the 24 solar terms, using his unique artistic style as a vehicle to tell their stories.

Over the past few years, Mr. Zhi Mi has created three versions of the ink painting series that represent the 24 solar terms, focusing on iconic flowers, plants, and seasonal landscapes. His artwork reflects the essence of life, bringing each solar term to life on paper. For instance, during the Grain in Ear solar term, he illustrated a busy scene with an ox tied to a tree, symbolizing the agricultural work of the season. In contrast, for the Beginning of Winter, he depicted a single fresh cabbage, evoking fond memories of his time living in Beijing.

His paintings resonate with viewers, connecting them to traditional Chinese seasonal life. Many attendees were inspired to take photos of the artwork, with some expressing a desire to save Mr. Zhi’s charming images as screen savers, rotating them for each solar term. Mr. Zhi also brought signed illustrated books to share with the children present, further engaging the young audience.

While ink painting may have limitations in depicting certain tangible elements like food, Mr. Zhi Mi has pushed these boundaries through exploration and innovation. He skillfully conveys textures, whether it’s a steaming hot pot filled with dishes or a single dewdrop on a leaf, merging the ethereal qualities of ink with lifelike detail.

As a storyteller of rural life, Mr. Zhi Mi Mi captures the poetry of the seasons and the essence of daily experiences through his art. He concluded the lecture by discussing the importance of emotional expression in children's art education, emphasizing that the joy found in the creative process is what truly matters.

Art thrives on the synergy of hand, eye, and heart. Even those without extensive techniques can discover joy in the act of painting. Just as the 24 solar terms encapsulate the warmth of childhood memories, they preserve the most cherished moments for generations.