Two Egrets

Zhao Shao'ang is renowned for his lively portrayal of birds. As a student of Gao Jianfu, Zhao continued to advocate the importance of staying true to nature. In Two Egrets, Zhao's mastery of his unique brand of unconstrained and expressive brushstrokes brings life to the white egrets and the willow. A painting of hope, the white egret is a symbol of strength, patience and long life while the willow represents spring.
Much care has been given to the composition and detail to maximize the immediacy of movement and realism. A robust tree branch is placed in the centre, while another reaches upwards setting the basic structure for the painting and a dramatic stage for the egrets. The placement of the willow's long and sweeping branches created a depth of perspective that is enhanced by the contrast of shading. Flickers of yellow and blue furnish the painting with glimmering sparkles. Each single brushstroke is executed with vigour, resulting in a vibrant and dramatic depiction of spring.