Literature

Li Qun is a prominent figure in the emerging woodcut printmaking movement in China and embodies the poetical spirit of the “Yan’an School.” He has had a significant influence on the development of modern printmaking in China. From a young age, he dedicated his art to the great cause of national liberation. After the establishment of the People’s Republic of China, he actively explored a nationalistic style of printmaking that appealed to the masses. Through his commitment to “art for the people” and his artistic pursuits and explorations, he accumulated rich artistic experiences and thoughts that influenced a generation of Chinese printmakers.

The term “Yan’an School” was first proposed by Li Qun in his article “Six Years at Luxun Academy of Fine Arts.” It mainly refers to a group of woodcut printmakers consisting of faculty and students from the Department of Fine Arts at the Luxun Academy of Arts in Yan’an.

This work mainly gathers comments and academic research on Li Qun, the woodcut poet of the “Yan’an School,” by renowned artists, art theorists, and various sectors of society, covering his printmaking, artistic theory, literature, and poetry. It aims to provide research information and references for scholars and researchers studying Li Qun’s art, as well as the “Yan’an School” artistic movement and the history of modern Chinese art.

“The Complete Works of Li Qun” is a comprehensive nine-volume collection that showcases Mr. Li Qun’s dedication and creative accomplishments across various fields such as woodcut paintings, essays, novels, and literary critiques. Each volume stands as a complete entity, offering readers a glimpse into Mr. Li Qun’s artistic evolution from youth to maturity. This collection not only reviews his career but also highlights his profound expertise and unique insights. It serves as both a recognition of his personal achievements and an inheritance of his significant contributions to Chinese literature and art. The publication of these volumes will provide future generations with valuable cultural heritage, inspiring further engagement in literary and artistic pursuits and contributing to the enrichment of Chinese culture.

Li Qun, in my view, is a remarkable figure of his generation. Decades ago, I came across his woodblock prints in the “Jin Sui Daily,” and they truly captivated me. He had connections with the cultural giant of China, Mr. Lu Xun, as early as the 1930s. He was the only person from Shanxi to participate in the Yan’an Forum on Literature and Art and personally listen to Chairman Mao’s speeches. When I visited the Yan’an Exhibition Hall, I saw historical photos of the young Li Qun, which evoked a strong sense of familiarity. I had the opportunity to work with Li Qun’s wife, Mrs. Liu Pingdu, during my time in the Youth League in Xinxian County. In 1998, Li Qun enthusiastically accepted the role of consultant for the Sanjin Cultural Research Association and visited the Ten-Year Achievements Exhibition of the Sanjin Cultural Research Association with Hu Fuguo. While admiring the exhibition, he exclaimed, “Great achievements, indeed!” These experiences left a deep impression on me.

The forthcoming “Picture Biography of Li Qun” provides an in-depth look into the life and artistic journey of this revered figure. From his humble beginnings in Shanxi to becoming a pioneering force in China’s woodcuts and printmaking movement. Li Qun’s unwavering commitment to his craft endured personal and political challenges. His story, from rural roots to the National Hangzhou Art College, mirrors China’s modern history’s tumultuous backdrop. Imprisonment during the Kuomintang era and active involvement in national efforts during the Anti-Japanese War shaped his experiences. Beyond printmaking, Li Qun’s artistic endeavours spanned Chinese painting and literature, earning international recognition. Known for his warm personality and advocacy for cultural preservation, his legacy lives on through initiatives like the “Li Qun Art Museum“. As the biography reveals, Li Qun’s impact as a “People’s Artist” transcends artistic realms, symbolising contemporary China’s spirit and inspiring future generations. This book is translated in English on this website.

Congratulations – To Mr. Li Qun, a renowned Chinese printmaker, writer, literary critic, and local luminary. Respected Mr. Li Qun: Today marks your 97th birthday. First and foremost, please allow us, on behalf of the Ling Shi County Committee, Government, People’s Congress, Political Consultative Conference, and all 240,000 residents of the county, to offer our deepest respects to you. We wish you good health, happiness, and longevity! Throughout your life, you have shown boundless loyalty to the Party and the people, dedicating yourself to the unwavering pursuit of art and creating many masterpieces that are deeply cherished by people both domestically and abroad. Your print works are known for their concise, lively, and lyrically colourful style, reflecting your unique and distinctive artistic personality. Reading your poetry, articles, and admiring your paintings is not only a pleasure and an education but also elevates spiritual realms and nurtures emotions. Art originates from life, and you have rich life experiences, akin to a rich mine, continuously providing energy for your creations. May your artistic tree always remain green! Ling Shi is blessed with outstanding individuals, and you are one of the most outstanding pride of this rich land. Despite being in the capital for decades, you have always remembered your hometown, cherished your roots, often reminisced about your hometown, and tirelessly worked for its development. Your deep affection for your hometown commands our utmost respect. Special thanks for your careful guidance and generous love for various undertakings in Ling Shi County. We are proud to have an artist like you and proud to have an outstanding local figure like you, and we are extremely honoured to participate in your 97th birthday celebration! Life is full of ups and downs, and time changes everything. The youthful vigour and glory of yesteryears have become memories. Although your temples are now greyed with frost, you still carry an unwavering spirit. Once again, I sincerely wish our respected elder, may your artistic tree always remain green, may the waters of life flow endlessly, may your birthday be joyful, may the spring radiance be everlasting, may your spirit be vigorous, may your appearance be healthy, and may your family be happy. Ling Shi County CPPCC Chairman, Pu Jihai Ling Shi County Committee Member, Minister of Propaganda Department, An Cheng December 25, 2008

The “Afterglow Collection” signifies the culmination of Li Qun’s literary journey following the “Sunset Collection”. Within its 34 articles, each holds significance. Particularly noteworthy is “The Eternal Navigation Lighthouse,” detailing the “Yan’an Forum on Literature and Art” exploring its historical impact and contemporary interpretation. “My Creative Path” delves into personal experiences with realism. Naming his family “Huaiyanzhai” reflects nostalgia for Yan’an, clarified in “Remembering Lu Yi.” As I bid farewell to writing, he offers this collection as a testament to his lifelong dedication to literature and art, aiming for a lasting legacy resonating with readers for generations.

In December 1994, Li Qun embarked on a five-month journey to Australia, chronicling his experiences in “Diary of living in Australia.” Through daily entries, he contrasts the climate, environment, and cultural interests of Australia with the mainland. Sydney’s wildlife, especially the playful parrots, captivated him, as shared in his letter “The Story of Little Parrots.” The catalog offers a visual journey from Sydney’s streets to Phillip Bay’s shores, showcasing Li Qun’s unique perspective and memories.

Li Qun, known primarily as a woodcuts artist showcases his literary talents alongside his passion for painting in an anthology spanning novels, essays, and critiques. The collection starts with “The Story of the Wild Girl,” a moving novel, followed by serene prose pieces like “My Paradise” and “Hua Orchid.” His adeptness in art and literature criticism shines in “Li Qun Art and Literature Criticism Collection”. “Sunset Glow” a compilation of 63 articles, chronicles his evolution as a writer, reflecting on his life’s journey. Notable is “Writer Cao Bai’s Wartime Life Story” honouring his friend’s transformation amidst historical upheaval. Sunset Collection delves into Li Qun’s harmonious blend of art, literature, and human experiences.

Li Qun, born on December 25, 1912, in Haogia Village, Shanxi Province, has been involved in art for nearly 60 years. He grew up in a rural environment, which greatly influenced his woodcut creations and writings. Li Qun studied at the National Hangzhou Art Specialized School and later joined the Chinese Leftist Artists’ League. Despite imprisonment during the “Muling” incident in 1933, he continued his artistic endeavors upon release. His woodcut works received praise from Lu Xun and gained international recognition. Throughout his career, Li Qun actively participated in literary and art activities, contributing significantly to Chinese art and culture. He held various positions in cultural organizations and received numerous accolades for his contributions to literature and art. Li Qun’s works have been exhibited worldwide, reflecting his enduring impact on the artistic landscape.

“Selected Poems of Li Qun,” compiled by the artist himself, finding its verses rich in sincerity, vivid imagery, and melodious rhythms. Divided into three volumes with a total of 88 poems, the collection showcases Li Qun’s deep emotions, artistic vision, and linguistic precision. Each poem resonates deeply, ranging from tranquil reflections to dynamic expressions, mirroring Li Qun’s paintings’ profound essence. Through his poems like “In Praise of General Peng Dehuai” and “In Memory of the Poet Ai Qing”. Li Qun pays homage to historical figures with admiration and affection, weaving philosophical musings with poignant imagery. His personality shines through, conveying a spectrum of emotions with unwavering sincerity.

Li Qun renowned woodcuts artist who has been engaged in artistic creation for nearly 60 years. He persists in both printmaking and literary creation, and is also involved in Chinese painting. Additionally, he is a well-known art critic. His prints are characterised by their simplicity, clarity, and lyrical colours, reflecting his unique artistic personality. His collection of art critiques comprises 92 articles published over the past 20 years, covering topics such as art criticism, literary criticism, and other commentaries. Li Qun participated in the Yan’an Forum on Literature and Art and provided a detailed account, emphasising the importance of Mao Zedong’s literary and artistic thought. He criticised Western bourgeois modernist art and negative trends, advocating for the development of socialist art. Li Qun opposed the trend of bourgeois liberalisation, presented his views on artistic innovation, and emphasised the Marxist view of art. He made outstanding contributions to the field of printmaking, focusing on the development of emerging printmaking, and published numerous articles and critiques on printmaking history.

An autobiography penned by the renowned Chinese woodcuts artist Li Qun. Through a blend of documentary techniques, Li Qun vividly recounts the twists and turns of his career, tracing his creative journey and artistic evolution over the past century.

This captivating autobiography immerses readers in the rich tapestry of historical events and personal anecdotes, offering a firsthand glimpse into the changing landscapes and profound insights of a people’s artist. With its elegant prose, accessible language and abundant historical materials.

This autobiography is a precious addition to any woodcuts artist or historian’s collection.

Li Qun the renowned woodcuts artist from Shanxi has weathered numerous challenges and remained committed to self-improvement, guided by unwavering beliefs and relentless determination. His journey from rural origins to urban landscapes, from the city to Yan’an, reflects his resilience and perseverance amidst life’s trials.

This book not only chronicles the artist’s arduous life journey and his notable achievements in painting, but also delves into his artistic philosophies. Li Qun’s insights on literature and his innovative approach to art are highlighted, making this book relevant for professionals, aspiring artists, and young literary enthusiasts alike.

In the remote mountain village of Shanxi Province, Guilian grows up without her mother’s love, facing her father’s bitterness and the superstitions that label her unlucky. Despite harsh circumstances, she finds solace in nature and solitude. As she matures, Guilian’s resilience becomes her strength, defying her father’s attempts to sell her and embracing her wild spirit amidst rural hardships. “The Tale of a Wild Girl” chronicles her journey through family, fate, and resilience against a world intent on breaking her.

The pure and lively sensibilities of children, influenced by nature, the memorable and relatable people encountered during youth, and the longing of young minds for life and his emotional reflections. These themes permeate the work of the acclaimed woodcuts artist Li Qun. In this book, Li Qun skilfully intertwines literature and art to vividly depict moments from his childhood. Li Qun’s writing and painting merge harmoniously, producing essays that genuinely evoke childhood memories. These narratives are distinguished by his sincerity, refined prose, and captivating artistic charm.