Chen Li, *Dongchuan Mountain IV*, 2016, oil on canvas, 130 x 160cm

Dongchuan, known as “God’s Pallette” or “Red Earth” is a stunning area in China’s remote Yunnan Province where the mineral-rich mountains and valleys treat the eyes to an explosion of colour that defies belief.

One of the most strikingly beautiful places in the world, it is where nature’s whimsy exceeds anything us mortals could have conjured.

The Yunnan Province which is home to the Dongchuan mountains is also home to Chen Li, a painter and woodblock printmaker whose Dongchuan series of paintings remain some of my favorites.

Chen Li is the first artist that took a chance on my then brand new gallery a decade ago, and is the inspiration behind my focus on extraordinary art from places less explored. Since our first meeting in Yunnan, we enjoyed many happy collaborations, including the acquisition and display of his work by The British Museum.

Chen Li, *Dongchuan Mountains with a Horse*, 2016, oil on canvas, 100 x 130cm

“Like all artists, I have my personal viewpoint and cultural background. I examine the field in which I exist and explore new possibilities.” Chen Li

Chen Li, *Dongchuan II*, 2012, oil on canvas, 70 x 90cm, private collection

Inspired by poetry, music, nature and philosophy, Chen Li melds Eastern and Western aesthetics and techniques while remaining rooted in Chinese classical traditions, creating a unique visual language that captures movement, stillness, harmony - and the vast freedom of landscapes.

Chen Li, *Dongchuan Mountains, Joy*, 2016, oil on canvas, 100 x 132cm

“Everything is changing, moving and floating around … I long for the grand expanse of vast landscapes, but I exist in the constraints of my physical body.” Chen Li

Chen Li’s art is a vivid testament to his unique vision and abundant originality.

More about Chen Li, and to see more of his paintings and woodblocks, visit his Artist’s Page here: https://www.katrinelevin.com/artistpage-chen-li

God's Palette