Enter the Forest

Pine trees are known to survive in harsh environments; they take root upon cliffs and mountainsides, even preventing erosion by clinging onto the stones in which they grow. Chi-Jen Liu often features pine trees in his art because they demonstrate the ability to withstand challenges and inspire us to be stronger than our daily obstacles. "Blue Pine Harmony" symbolizes longevity. Note how the branches of the trees intersect like ancient hands, creating an elegantly woven shelter for several white cranes who have taken refuge beneath its shade. Both pine trees and cranes symbolize long life and happiness.

In "Relaxing with Deer," a man enjoys tea under the shade of a tree. He is quietly watching the sunset and contemplating the numerous lessons and tests he has passed. Chi-Jen Liu gives us a unique portrayal of a man by surrounding him with symbols that reveal the blessings he has earned from a long life of hard work.

One of the blessings he has earned is longevity, which is depicted by the man's foot resting upon an old tortoise. Tortoises are known for their ability to retain life force and reach very old age. Another blessing is wealth, which comes in the form of two creatures: the golden deer and the fortune toad. The Chinese word for deer is "lu," and is a homonym for a "long and prosperous life." The fortune toad comes from Chinese mythology and its appearance is a positive omen preceding wealth and good news.

In Chi-Jen Liu's painting, "Ginkgo of Happiness," hundreds of multi-colored ginkgo leaves burst across the paper like fireworks in the sky. This painting is a celebration of life’s blessings, such as strength, longevity, and health.

Ginkgo trees symbolize strength because they have survived catastrophic events such as lightning strikes and atomic bomb radiation; and long life because it is one of the oldest known trees in the world, living up to 10,000 years of age. They also symbolize health because ginkgo seeds and leaves are highly regarded in traditional Chinese medicine to improve respiratory and digestive functions. Its unique leaves resemble countless open fans wafting breezes of peace and tailwinds of prosperity.

Chi-Jen Liu's "Sacred Bamboo Forest" focuses your gaze upon the light at the end of the tunnel. In his meditations, the artist enters this bamboo grove of peace. He gathers calmness and fulfillment, and makes these invisible blessings appear in his paintings. For instance, the trees at the bottom symbolize personal growth; the sun and moon radiate mantra charms imbued with the power to release negativity and to nurture prosperity. Like ephemeral aurorae, green mantra charms for wealth float among the clouds. Chi-Jen Liu encourages us to meditate in this sacred forest, to cultivate a bamboo-like nature, and to work toward our dreams.

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