Chu Teh-ChunLe Crépuscule
1983
Oil on canvas
Signed and dated lower right
36.22 x 25.59 in ( 92 x 65 cm )

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Inquiry - Le Crépuscule, 1983

Cépuscule, was produced in 1983, after a long trip to China. This is the first time he has returned to his native land since his departure in 1949. He is plunged back into the majestic and grandiose Chinese landscapes. This canvas accentuates the coexistence between Eastern and Western tradition. Different shades of orange dominate the dynamic composition, thus staging a powerful, deep and bubbling nature. Here, the light creates a discontinuous succession of echoes: the gaze follows the movement of the hand which delivers this lyrical vision of space. Chu Teh-Chu represents both shadow and light, organization and chaos, Ying and Yang.

“The artist absorbs what he sees in nature and refines it in his mind, and it is the power of the artist's imagination, his sensitivity and his inner character that are revealed on the canvas. This is where the concepts of Chinese painting and abstract painting come together very clearly”.

 Chu Teh-Chun

Chu Teh-Chun, born on October 24, 1920, in Baitou, Jiangsu Province, China, is a prominent artist of the 20th century renowned for his exceptional contributions to abstract art and oil painting. His work is characterized by a unique fusion of Chinese and Western influences, showcasing a profound poetic sensitivity and remarkable technical mastery.

From a young age, Chu Teh-Chun displayed a strong interest in art, particularly in calligraphy and traditional Chinese painting. His early education at the Hangzhou National College of Art, under the guidance of Lin Fengmian, marked the beginning of an artistic exploration that would define his career. In 1955, he settled in Paris, a city that not only became his permanent residence but also a crucial source of inspiration for his artistic development.

Chu Teh-Chun's early works in Paris reveal a gradual transition towards abstraction. Influenced by the dynamic artistic environment of the French capital, he explored innovative techniques in oil painting, developing a distinctive style that combines elements of traditional Chinese art with a contemporary Western aesthetic. His canvases are characterized by energetic brushstrokes, vibrant color juxtapositions, and captivating emotional depth.

The year 1956 was a pivotal turning point in his career with his first solo exhibition at the Galerie du Dragon in Paris. This exhibition solidified his growing reputation in Europe and established his place among the leading contemporary artists. Critics praised his ability to transcend cultural boundaries and create a universally appreciated visual language.

Over the ensuing decades, Chu Teh-Chun continued to explore and refine his abstract style, producing works that celebrate nature, music, and spirituality. His series of paintings, often on a grand scale, reflect a constant search for harmony and balance in artistic expression. He is known for his ability to capture the ephemeral essence of light and movement through lyrical and dynamic compositions.

Among his most iconic works are series such as "Symphony," "Landscape of the Soul," and "Harmony." These series not only illustrate his stylistic evolution but also his profound spiritual introspection. Each of Chu Teh-Chun's paintings invites silent contemplation, revealing layers of meaning that transcend the limits of spoken language.

Alongside his prolific artistic career, Chu Teh-Chun participated in numerous major exhibitions worldwide. His works were regularly featured in prestigious museums and contemporary art galleries across Europe, Asia, and the United States. In 1983, a significant retrospective of his work was held at the National Museum of Modern Art in Paris, marking official recognition of his enduring influence and impact on modern art.

Throughout his life, Chu Teh-Chun received numerous honors and awards, including the title of Commander of the Order of Arts and Letters in France. His contribution to contemporary art transcended cultural boundaries and continues to inspire generations of artists worldwide.

Chu Teh-Chun passed away on March 26, 2014, in Paris, leaving behind a profoundly influential artistic legacy. His work remains a celebration of timeless beauty, creativity, and the expressive power of abstract art, reminding us all of art's ability to transcend differences and create universal connections between cultures and individuals.