Biography

My name is Joseph Wu, and I also use the pen name Freehand Styler. I was born in Hong Kong in 1963. I am a fourth-generation artist of the Lingnan School of Painting, specializing in traditional Chinese ink painting of flowers, birds, fish, and insects. My brushwork seeks to balance strength and delicacy, expressing Chinese cultural philosophy and often carrying poetic meaning within each stroke.

In 2021, I emigrated from Hong Kong to the United Kingdom. Since moving to the UK, I have been actively involved in community activities, frequently demonstrating my painting techniques and showcasing my works. Through these efforts, I aim to promote the Lingnan School of Painting, allowing the public to appreciate its unique qualities.

Artistic Career

Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to exhibit my works across China, Hong Kong, and the United Kingdom, including the 9th to 13th Hong Kong Calligraphy and Painting Art Association Member Works Exhibitions at Hong Kong City Hall.

Today, I remain committed to preserving and promoting the artistic heritage of the Lingnan School of Painting. I continue to create works inspired by nature that are elegant, expressive, and accessible, with the hope of sharing the beauty of Chinese painting with audiences around the world.

About the Lingnan School of Painting

The Lingnan School of Painting aimed to broaden the expressive possibilities of Chinese brush painting by incorporating influences from Western art. With an open and innovative spirit, it grew into an important artistic movement in China during the late Qing Dynasty and early modern period.

The Lingnan style blends traditional Chinese brush techniques with Western concepts of space, light, and color. It often employs boneless painting and techniques of layering water and pigment to achieve vibrant and dynamic effects. This stylistic fusion reflects both the culture of its era and the unique artistic character of the Lingnan region.

Influences

Professor Chao Shao-an

Education

The artist at work