Li Chi-mao’s centennial exhibition at the National Museum of History
Li Chi-Mao was a renowned Taiwanese ink painter, known for blending traditional ink techniques with Western sketching styles, often inspired by animals, Taiwanese folk customs, street scenes, and rural life. To pay tribute to the late artist, the National Museum of History is holding an exhibition showcasing his masterpieces. FTV reporter Stephany Yang spoke to Li’s daughter to find out more about his works and the legacy her father hoped to leave.
This is Li Chi-Mao’s final masterpiece, "Heavenly Steed." The painting symbolizes freedom and vitality.
Li An-rong
Li Chi-Mao’s daughter
He grew up in a family with horses, so he had a special affection for them. After a lifetime of painting horses, he finally created this one less than a year before his death. This is a group of horses racing. The ink and color work together well, it feels as if the ink hadn’t dried yet. It shows a change in rhythm.
Li’s works were greatly inspired by his travels internationally and in Taiwan. These works were inspired by the eagles he saw in the Middle East.
Li An-rong
Li Chi-Mao’s daughter
There are several works on display, including three featuring eagles. Over the past decade, he had been documenting the ecology of eagles in the Middle East and the Northwest, creating pieces that reflect different periods of his artistic journey. He didn’t create drafts, as his exceptional memory allowed him to envision compositions in detail. When he painted, he had to physically connect with the paper, understanding its layout and spatial balance. As soon as he put pen to paper, the entire composition would come to life. For instance, his eagle paintings are executed in a freehand brush work style.
This ink painting illustrates Taipei’s metro system, showcasing the combination of busyness and the beautiful stillness and scenery of Taiwan.
Li An-rong
Li Chi-Mao’s daughter
The black area at the top is used to emphasize visual contrast. Amid the movement and murmuring of people in the crowded train car, one can quietly gaze into the distance at Guanyin Mountain. The composition combines dynamic and still elements, creating a contrast between motion and stillness. The low vantage point of the work encourages the viewer to look upward and into the distance.
Li Chi-Mao was a renowned Taiwanese ink painter, known for blending traditional ink techniques with Western sketching styles. Throughout his career, he exhibited his works internationally, promoting art and culture, and taught at various universities. His contributions earned him numerous awards. Li’s daughter says her father’s perseverance and dedication for his craft greatly inspired her. Despite being in a wheelchair during the latter years of his life, he never stopped creating and traveling.
Li An-rong
Li Chi-Mao’s daughter
When he created this artwork, he was nearly 90 years old and had to use a wheelchair. He had to overcome numerous physical and mental challenges during the creative process. We are deeply grateful for the experiences and insights he shared with us, allowing us to witness his transformations throughout different periods of his life. Whether young and full of energy or old age, he never ceased to evolve and reinvent himself. I believe this mindset is something we can all learn from. It has been a great source of inspiration for me.
Li Chi-Mao’s exhibit will be on display at the National Museum of History in Taipei until June 8. It celebrates the 100th anniversary of Li Chi-Mao’s birth, showcasing 69 works from 25 different institutions. Some of the works are on display for the first time, to pay tribute to the renowned artist and keep his legacy alive.
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2025-05-20
