Zhimi Li 李知弥
Zhi Mi Li, born in October 1979, graduated from the China Academy of Art in 2003. He is a contemporary ink artist, art educator, and published author, known for his ink paintings that depict scenes of everyday life. His work blends traditional Chinese aesthetics with modern sensibilities, characterized by subtlety, poetic expression, and philosophical depth.
Deeply influenced by Chinese philosophy, Zhi Mi Li aims to move “from technique to essence,” focusing on spiritual exploration beyond technical mastery. He is not a servant of tradition but its master, using it to express his poetic spirit. His piece 24节气 (The 24 Solar Terms) has received recognition and support from the National Art Fund, showcasing his ability to meld tradition with contemporary themes.
As an educator, Zhi Mi Li bridges ink art with contemporary movements, encouraging young artists to balance tradition and innovation while developing their unique voices. His books, including 知弥先生 (Mr. Zhi Mi), 君自故乡来 (You Come from Your Hometown), and 常相知 (Always Knowing Each Other), have been included in the library of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, further establishing his influence in the art world.
Throughout his career, he has participated in numerous exhibitions, including the Saint-Étienne International Biennial in France, the Taipei Arts Festival, and the Venice Biennale, gaining recognition both in China and internationally. His artistic journey embodies the challenge of balancing tradition with individual expression, moving from technique to a state of "dao" (the way), where art becomes a vehicle for spiritual expression.
Artist Statement
Chinese contemporary artists, especially those working in ink painting, carry a heavy burden of tradition. They face the challenge of inheriting and preserving centuries-old techniques, which often makes it difficult to break free from conventions and express their individuality. Zhi Mi Li is not a servant of this tradition but its master, using it as a medium to express his poetic spirit. His work captures the essence of both the ancient and the new, blending deep cultural roots with a sense of freedom and innovation. A blade of grass, a butterfly, a flower, or a landscape—any of these might find their way into his work. The delicate or vibrant variations in his brushstrokes invite viewers into a realm that can only be sensed rather than fully explained.
Zhi Mi Li’s calligraphy and ink works carry a philosophical depth that is fluid and unrestrained, revealing an inner peace and cultural knowledge that extends beyond technique. As the painter Shi Tao once said, “Spitting blood over ten measures of ink is not as valuable as savoring a ball of snow.” This quote captures the challenge of balancing technical mastery with spiritual transcendence—a challenge Zhi Mi Li embraces fully. He transcends mere skill, moving from technique to a state of "dao" (the way), where art becomes a vehicle for spiritual expression.