Wu Wei (family name is Wu) is an extremely talented Chinese artist and his work has a strong, dramatic appeal. It can be said that he is somewhat rare amongst young Chinese painters concerned with consciousness and the human soul.

　　Looking at the many artistic styles at this time, his work leans towards anthropology, psychology, sociology and features of a cultural viewpoint. His work is profound, infused with a unique perspective which portrays an analysis of modern living conditions and moods. He uses these dramatic storylines to decipher the modern human condition and address the psychological issues and problems in society. Through his dramatic painting style Wu Wei manifests the invisible human soul into reality. He uses his canvas to highlight moments of modern confusion so as to afford people the opportunity to break from their spiritual shackles, gain an understanding of themselves and give them courage to face life.

　　As you can see from "compass game - prequel", "Prophecy and Revelation" , "birds and Lies", "Gushan Jingzhe map" and "Caravaggio bridge's games" above, Wu Wei's work captures a moment in time, revealing his character's innermost thoughts through their posture and body language. His works embody the rhythms of a generation. He reveals beauty and authenticity through his exploration of his character's conflicts. Here, the artist conveys a sincere depth of humanity in his thinking.

　　"Tomorrow" , "romantic speculative," "Circumstances", "Phantom Lover", "Peony Pavilion -1-3", "Eclipse", "Dance" and "little late spring" are portrait oil painting works by Wu Wei. His use of realism, classic colors and visual stimuli creates an interesting dialogue between characters in the paintings. These paintings are visually explicit in their setting, themes and harmonious poses and shows true artistic skill. Thus, Wu Wei's work displays his unique aesthetic repertoire.

　　He embues his paintings with light, religiosity and graceful classical styles, combining contemporary painting with a classical spirit. He uses a dramatic stage-type of lighting in his works, full of poetry, showing us life's mysteries.

　　In the modern art world artists have a responsibility to use their artistic voice to represent the human spirit:

　　Because art at the highest level shows the human spirit, it can be referred to as "soul art".

　　Because art is a form of culture.

　　Because the true expression of art is the artists attention to reality and self and the concept of humanism.

　　I hope Wu Wei's style of oil painting will enlighten and inspire others to create art.

　　Author: Renmin University of China Department of culture and Arts Marketing Research Institute deputy director, Professor.

　　Also, the United States of America Chinese Contemporary Art Foundation Chairman of China.

Translated by Li Wu