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On the occasion of its 5th anniversary, the Macau Cardinal Newman Arts & Culture Centre is honored to invite Mr. Mak Chi Keung to present his first solo painting exhibition, "Freehand Heart," as part of an artist-in-residence program.
Mak Chi Keung's work blends his long-standing passion for Canton famille-rose porcelain with his solid painting skills, creating a dialogue with personal memories. His paintings carry forward the exquisite composition, delicate brushwork, and rich colors of painted porcelain, reflecting his deep contemplation and sensitive perception of art. Traditional Canton famille-rose patterns are diverse, featuring themes such as landscapes, historical figures, flowers, birds, fruits, and auspicious dragons and phoenixes, symbolizing a yearning for a beautiful life and imbued with folkloric charm. In his creations, Mak not only vividly interprets these themes but also demonstrates his profound care for humanistic life.
Eleven works in the exhibition depict patterns commonly found on antique porcelain, painted by Mak from memory and imagination years ago, akin to a narrative recollection on paper. For instance, "Hundred Children" showcases his deep concern for humanistic life, while "Lush Fuchun Mountains and Rivers" reveals his artistic vision. As he states, "These patterns are equally suitable for painting on porcelain." Mak also loves calligraphy, integrating Chinese literary poetry into his paintings, which not only adds poetic flavor but also creates a broad artistic conception, mirroring his rich life experiences.
Recording life with a brush, letting the heart guide the strokes, is one of life's great joys. Mak Chi Keung channels his years of creative passion into painting and poetry, depicting meticulous observations of worldly matters and refining a state of mind expressed as: "With clear air, mountains and rivers feel closer; with a distant heart, the universe feels wider."
Art Exhibitions