For thousands of years, Chinese painting has been a precious part of China’s cultural heritage. Unlike Western painting which focuses on realistic representation, Chinese painting values the expression of the artist’s inner spirit and feelings. It is an art that connects people with nature.
Traditional Chinese painting can be divided into two main types: ink wash painting and detailed painting. Ink wash painting uses only black ink and water to create different shades from light grey to deep black. The painter must control the amount of water carefully, as too much or too little can ruin the work. Detailed painting, on the other hand, uses fine brushes and colourful paints to create lifelike images of flowers, birds and other natural subjects.
What makes Chinese painting unique is its special relationship with other Chinese arts. Many Chinese paintings include poetry and calligraphy. The artist often writes a poem and signs the work with a personal seal, making each painting a complete work of art that combines visual beauty with literary meaning.
Learning Chinese painting requires great patience. Beginners usually start by practising basic brushstrokes for years before creating their own works. Many painters also spend time in nature, observing mountains, rivers and plants to better understand their subjects. This practice is not just about improving skills—it is also seen as a way to
cultivate one’s character and find inner peace.
Today, Chinese painting remains vibrant both at home and abroad. Museums display classical works, while contemporary artists continue to develop this ancient art form. Through its beautiful expressions of nature and rich cultural meaning, Chinese painting continues to touch people’s hearts around the world.
(
B
) 41. What is the main difference between Chinese painting and Western painting according to the passage?
A. Chinese painting uses more colours.
B. Chinese painting values the expression of inner spirit.
C. Western painting is more difficult to learn.
D. Western painting has a longer history.
(
B
) 42. What is mentioned as a requirement for learning Chinese painting?
A. Learning foreign languages.
B. Having great patience.
C. Using modern technology.
D. Studying abroad.
(
A
) 43. What does the underlined word “cultivate” in paragraph 4 most likely mean?
A. To improve or develop.
B. To change or replace.
C. To forget or lose.
D. To hide or cover.
(
C
) 44. What can we learn about detailed painting from the passage?
A. It uses only black ink.
B. It focuses on abstract images.
C. It creates lifelike natural subjects.
D. It is easier than ink wash painting.
(
C
) 45. What is the writer’s main purpose in writing this passage?
A. To encourage people to buy Chinese paintings.
B. To explain why Chinese painting is disappearing.
C. To introduce the basic features of Chinese painting.
D. To compare different types of Chinese painting.
