Ink Gourds (水墨葫蘆)

This expressive ink painting *Ink Gourds* by Professor Wang Fei takes the gourd as its central theme and skillfully combines splashed ink with dynamic brushwork, embodying the traditional Chinese literati ideal of “capturing the spirit through form.” The painting features intertwining vines and gracefully floating ink leaves, while the outlines of two gourds are rendered with simplicity and freedom. The varied use of ink—ranging from light to dark, dry to wet—along with intentional blank spaces, creates a rhythm and sense of balance throughout the composition. In Chinese culture, gourds symbolize blessings, prosperity, longevity, and protection against evil, conveying the artist’s refined taste and well-wishes for life. The inscription, “Spring of the yisi year – Ink Play by Liaoweng,” reveals the date of creation and the artist’s modest, playful attitude, suggesting that this work was created as a spontaneous expression, emphasizing the natural flow of ink and brush. With its harmonious composition and vivid spirit, this piece is an outstanding example of modern ink painting that seamlessly blends traditional aesthetics with personal style.