A few days ago, I went to a gallery in Yueqing to look at paintings. Among them, there are paintings by Mr. Li Meng hanging on the wall for sale. I feel sad when I see something. My husband and I have been friends for many years, but it has been three years since my husband passed away.
I vaguely remember that it was a certain day in the second half of the year. After dinner, I met Mr. Li Meng. At that time, Mr. Li Meng was ill but in good spirits. After some pleasantries, he held me with his trembling hand and continued intermittently that his works would be published in a collection soon. I'm really happy for him. This is his long-cherished wish and a testament to his many years of acting.
I was busy with my senior year of high school that year, so I had less time to chat at Mr. Li Meng’s house, but we still exchanged greetings with each other. One time, I was resting at home and heard someone calling me outside. When I listened carefully, it turned out to be Mr. Li Meng calling me. I hurried out to greet him, but unexpectedly he was already at the door of my house, but he still refused to come in.
Just when I was doubting, Mr. Li Meng spoke: "My work has been published, and the book was just received today." That excited expression and the twinkling light in his eyes were something I had never seen before. of. Mr. Li Meng is already over seventy years old, but at this time he is as innocent as a child, unable to hold back, and his joy is beyond words. I was also excited. We have known each other for a long time, and we have been friends for a long time. Although this seems to be flattering, I still like it. I grabbed the hem of his clothes and followed him to his studio.
Mr. Li Meng’s studio is very simple, or to put it simply, simple. Surrounded by four white walls, there is nothing painted. There were still some rain leaks in the corners, which was what bothered him the most. The studio is not big, and it is too cramped for two people. Moreover, adding a book desk and some picture folders of different sizes makes it even more cramped. On the ground are waste papers from years of practice, scattered in a mess. Such a poor and crude environment did not affect Mr. Li Meng's artistic creation at all. On the contrary, he was fascinated by it, and works full of artistic inspiration were published here one after another. When talking about these, Mr. Li Meng always smiles. Yes, the old gentleman can be happy and forget his worries. Isn’t this a manifestation of the realm of life?
After a moment of reverie, Mr. Li Meng handed me a beautifully printed book, "Young man, I have written a gift message for you, just take it." I was startled, and then took over.
This is an elegant book. "Li Zicun's Art Works" are printed in large gilt characters on the cover, which looks simple and solemn. The words were inscribed by Mr. Chunyi. It can be seen that although the author comes from the countryside, he is highly respected in the Yueqing art circle. The preface of this book was written by the late Mr. Wang Siyu, a famous calligrapher and painter in this hometown. At that time, Mr. Wang was in poor health, but when he heard about this, he wrote the preface happily regardless of his illness. They have been friends for many years and have the same artistic pursuits, so the preface is written with sincerity and sympathy. Talking about the past, eloquently, as if it were before your eyes. After reading this preface, I am amazed. It is enough to have such a confidant in life, and I deeply agree with him.
This book contains five parts, namely calligraphy, Chinese painting, seal cutting, ivory carving, and wood carving. The scope is broad, exquisite and unique, each piece is a fine product, and each piece is the fruit of Mr.'s lifelong efforts.
There are 28 calligraphy works, drawn from a wide range of materials and in different shapes. What is commendable is that Mr. Li Meng is able to travel among different calligraphy styles, but he is very comfortable and natural. His calligraphy is not only characterized by the thin, rigorous and meticulous willow body, but also the calm tendons and majestic character of his body. His small regular script is vigorous, clear and elegant, which not only captures the charm of Wen Zhengming, but also retains the character of the Tang and Jin Dynasties.
There are 32 frames of Chinese painting, with themes involving flowers, plants, poultry, insects and crabs, all of which are vivid and full of wit. His traditional Chinese paintings have the spirit of Gao Jianfu, the founder of the Lingnan School, who is bold and vigorous. Even his sketches always have an effect of ink divided into five colors.
The 48-square seal carving embodies the owner’s state of mind in cultivating his moral character. The layout of his seal cuttings gradually became more rigorous and dense, while his style became simple, majestic and meaningful, elegant and bone-like.
There are 26 carvings, including wood carvings (boxwood carvings) and ivory carvings (ivory carvings). The carvings are exquisite in knife skills and smooth in lines, and the characters have handsome features and good movements, giving them the charm of Dunhuang Feitian. It can be said that there are thousands of things in a small area.
As I read this book carefully, my thoughts were stagnant. In front of each work, I must listen carefully and understand it.
When Mr. Li Meng saw this, he stroked his white hair, which was full of wisdom carved by the years. I think this is talent. It's always such a shallow smile, a very knowing smile. In this world, you can only do what you like best, that's all. Mr. Li Meng told me that he has recently been creating a hundred sketches. It’s almost finished and I want to hold a calligraphy and painting exhibition. Still such a shallow smile.
It was almost dusk when I walked out of Mr. Li Meng’s studio. Although the sun has lost the warmth of the day, it is even more warm. Reflected in the water pool in front of the house, it has a more poetic style. Just like the name of Mr. Li Meng’s painting and calligraphy studio: Tan Yingxuan.
However, this was five years ago.