Hua Yan 華喦

Hua Yan (1682–1756) was a prominent Chinese painter and poet during the Qing Dynasty, known for his contributions to the Yangzhou School of painting. Born in Shanghang, Fujian Province, Hua Yan later moved to Yangzhou, where he became associated with a group of artists known for their innovative and individualistic styles. His work is characterized by a blend of traditional Chinese painting techniques with a more expressive and freehand approach, often depicting birds, flowers, and landscapes. Hua Yan's paintings are celebrated for their lyrical quality and his ability to capture the essence of his subjects with minimal brushstrokes. Throughout his career, he maintained a strong connection to classical Chinese culture while also embracing the artistic freedom that defined the Yangzhou School. His legacy is marked by his influence on subsequent generations of Chinese artists who sought to balance tradition with personal expression.