「Look at the Picture and Talk about the Painting」Hans Hartung: Without ink strokes, yet with flowing lines of rhythm

Unable to recognize the brushstrokes, yet able to perceive the spirit of the brush? German painter Hans Hartung never learned calligraphy, but his works are filled with the breathing sensation of the brush. The density and gradation of the ink is like “the drip marks on a roof”, and the firmness and softness of the lines are like “Drawing sand with a cone”. This wonderful resonance conceals the aesthetic convergence between Eastern and Western art.

Hans Hartung believed that the significance of lines lies in the relationship between art and natural forces. He released his freedom using spray guns and brushes, which was similar to the pursuit of “force penetrating the paper” in calligraphy. His insistence on “retaining the traces of improvisation” was like the fluidity of calligraphy where “the strokes end but the meaning continues”. However, his wildness originated from the inspiration of Western existentialism, while the abruptness of his painting style was saturated with the restraint of “harmony between heaven and man”, one for breaking free from constraints, the other for returning to order, resulting in a unique tension.

Under Hans Hartung’s lines, let us understand that the true essence of art lies not in the imitation of techniques, but in exploring the common spiritual pursuit of Eastern and Western art, as well as the pursuit of the true nature of life. This cross-cultural encounter also provides inspiration for contemporary art.
The tea for today is all gone. Next time, I’ll brew a fresh pot and enjoy art with you again.