Artwork Description

MO XIONG

Vase, n.d.
ink and watercolor on paper
26.8 x 53.5 in (68 × 136 cm)

This expansive composition unfolds as a dynamic floral arrangement, where bursts of orange lilies and surrounding foliage radiate outward from a central axis. The surface is animated by energetic ink splashes and layered washes, creating a sense of movement that contrasts with the underlying compositional balance. The inclusion of a bird in flight introduces an additional element of vitality, enhancing the work’s sense of rhythm and life.

Mo Xiong’s approach reflects a synthesis of traditional Chinese painting techniques and a more liberated, expressive use of colour. The interplay between controlled brushwork and spontaneous mark-making produces a surface that is both structured and fluid. Areas of density are offset by more open passages, allowing the composition to breathe while maintaining its visual intensity.

The work engages with the tradition of floral painting, reinterpreting it through a contemporary lens that embraces both abstraction and figuration. The use of vibrant colour and gestural application introduces a heightened emotional register, while the underlying composition remains grounded in classical principles.

This painting exemplifies Mo Xiong’s ability to balance spontaneity with control, resulting in a work that is both visually compelling and conceptually cohesive.

Condition: Very good condition. Suitable for framing; no significant issues noted.

Provenance: Available upon request.