On October 26, the “Cultural Bat Hall” hosted an academic symposium in Guangzhou marking the 70-year artistic career of Liu Sifen. Organized by the Guangdong Provincial Federation of Literary and Art Circles and the Guangdong Provincial Writers’ Association, the event saw experts and scholars gather to engage in deep discussions about the creative and innovative characteristics of Liu’s poetry, prose, painting, and calligraphy, as well as the artistic value, cultural connotations, aesthetic style, and spiritual qualities reflected in his work.
Liu Sifen has long been a leader and organizer in Guangdong’s literary scene, having served three consecutive terms as president of the Guangdong Provincial Federation of Literary and Art Circles. A first-class writer, he won the Fourth Mao Dun Literature Prize in 1997 for his historical novel “The Willow by the White Gate.” His career spans various fields including novels, poetry, fine arts, calligraphy, and cultural research, where he has achieved remarkable success.
In his speech, Liu Xiaoyi, chairman of the Education, Science, Culture and Health Committee of the Guangdong Provincial People’s Congress, emphasized that Liu Sifen advocates for breaking down the barriers between literature, history, philosophy, poetry, and visual arts. This approach has significant implications for stimulating cultural innovation and creativity in Guangdong.
Gao Jinghai, a member of the Guangdong Provincial Federation of Literary and Art Circles and its vice president, remarked that Liu’s masterpieces have made a significant impact. They embody the rich heritage of traditional culture while incorporating unique perspectives from modern society. He noted that the symposium serves not only as a tribute to Liu’s artistic achievements and the exploration of his creative methodology but also as an encouragement to continue pursuing artistic ideals and striving for excellence.
Wu Bi, also a member and vice president of the Guangzhou Federation of Literary and Art Circles, reflected on how Liu expresses emotions through poetry, conveys profound messages through his writing, and captures the essence of life through his painting and calligraphy. Wu highlighted Liu’s work as a showcase of the diversity and vitality of Lingnan culture, noting that his artistic practice represents both a legacy of Chinese traditional culture and a bold pursuit of contemporary cultural innovation.
The event featured nearly 30 research experts who delivered specialized presentations, blending rich theoretical insights with clear practical analyses, thereby providing important references for advancing the study of Liu Sifen’s artistic contributions.
