On October 1st, the “Wu Ben – Cao Jun’s Works Exhibition” kicked off at the Rongbaozhai Building in Beijing, featuring an impressive showcase of 76 new masterpieces by celebrated artist Cao Jun, who is currently based in the United States. The exhibition offers a rich variety of works that draw on traditional themes, including landscapes, flowers, birds, and calligraphy.

In our discussion, Cao Jun opened up about the pieces on display. Some of the standout titles include “Jin Xiu Jia Yuan,” “Orange Isle,” “Nine Heavens of Longing,” “Dancing with the Wind,” “Heart Lotus,” “Green Water and Mountains,” and “Vastness.” These works fall within his “New Song Style Series,” “Lotus Series,” and “Abstract Series,” blending Eastern aesthetics with Western elements of realism, abstraction, and expressionism—this fusion marks an innovative shift in his artistic approach.

A highlight of the exhibition is definitely his “Lotus Series,” which has garnered significant attention within the art community. Cao Jun employs vibrant, bold colors and emphasizes lively contrasts through a unique calligraphic technique. This style not only evokes a rich historical quality but also maintains a refined elegance. The dynamic rhythm and variations in his brushwork create a striking representation of the lotus, infusing it with a romantic essence that feels contemporary.

Cao Jun articulated that the title “Wu Ben” signifies his commitment to the fundamentals of painting. He aims to foster a spirit of innovation that respects tradition while using an international artistic language to reveal the beauty of Eastern culture. “What truly inspires me are the elements of our Chinese heritage. When I encounter the Dunhuang murals or works from the Song and Yuan dynasties, I feel a profound connection to Chinese culture,” he shared.

The exhibition, hosted by Rongbaozhai, will be open to the public until October 15th.