“Childlike Fun” | Artist Mu Jianmei: Reclaiming Childhood Memories Through Ink Wash

Art often springs from the smallest moments of life, like the first light of dawn piercing through the morning mist—gentle yet bright. Painting, as a manifestation of human emotions and thoughts, offers one of the most direct ways to express the inner vision and feelings. Among various forms of art, ink wash painting, with its unique expressiveness and subtlety, has long been a treasured gem of Chinese culture. As the ancient saying goes, “The essence is captured in the eyes,” the portrayal of figures has always been a place for "spiritual likeness" in Chinese painting. Mu Jianmei, a professor and artist, is a brilliant messenger of this seamless blend of tradition and modernity. Through each brushstroke, she not only draws her own childhood but also brings the memories and dreams of every observer to life.

Mu Jianmei, a professor at Shandong University of Art and a renowned Chinese painter and art theorist, is dedicated to the study and creation of Chinese painting, particularly in the field of children’s art. Her works are infused with rich emotions and a tactile sense of life, especially those vibrant, lively depictions of children that deeply touch the heart. In her paintings, one may see small children playing, a family returning home after a rain, or the simplicity of everyday moments brimming with love. The seemingly innocent lines and colors actually reveal a return to childhood innocence and purity through the eyes of children.

"Every painting I create is a recollection of my childhood," Mu Jianmei shares. Her works, though simple in appearance, are filled with profound understanding of life and a deep connection with the inner world of children. She fondly recalls how, from a young age, she loved drawing, especially children's art. At that time, she viewed the world through a child’s eyes, believing that the most beautiful form of art is pure and free, just like a child's untainted vision.

Mu Jianmei’s creative process is deeply influenced by the ancient concept of "spiritual likeness" in figure painting, particularly the teachings of the painter Gu Kaizhi. She explains that the "spiritual likeness" concept, especially in her depiction of children’s emotions, continues to play a pivotal role in her work. She considers the eyes to be the vehicle for conveying emotion, especially in her child portraits, where the eyes often serve as the sole conduit for expressing feelings. “In my paintings, the appearance and physique of the figures are just the vehicles; the true soul is in the eyes. Especially in children, their eyes are clear and innocent, reflecting the most sincere emotions and thoughts."

As I quietly study her collection, the pages come to life with her childlike imagery. Each gaze, each expression, brings warmth and familiarity to the viewer. The children in her works, whether with an innocent look, a shy smile, or a mischievous gaze, seem to transport the viewer back in time to a carefree childhood. This return is not just a personal recollection, but also a revival of that innocent memory within every observer.

With a smile, she recalls, “I often feel that painting is not just my profession; it is a language through which I communicate with the world. My ink wash paintings carry my boundless imagination of childhood, as well as my deep understanding of life.” Each piece is imbued with her personal emotions and reflections. Through the tranquility of ink wash and the fluidity of her brushstrokes, Mu Jianmei transforms seemingly simple life scenes into profound works of art filled with emotion and philosophy. In her world, there is no boundary between the innocence of children and the wisdom of adults—there is only nature and harmony.

Over the years, Mu Jianmei has gradually developed a unique style. Her works are not bound by traditional forms of figure painting but instead blend the free-flowing expressiveness of Chinese ink wash with the innocence of children. Her paintings are minimal in decoration yet powerful in their simplicity; the brushstrokes are bold yet subtle, the ink soft yet layered. Each work is like a delicate poem, resonating deeply with the viewer’s soul.

"Painting is my way of expressing thoughts and emotions," she tells me as she presents a piece titled “Born in New China, Raised Under the Red Flag”, which was shortlisted for the 2016 Hanmo Qingzhou China Farmers’ Painting Exhibition. In this painting, the children’s smiling faces reflect hope for the future and a love for life. "This painting is not only a recollection of childhood but also a testimony and emotional expression of my growth alongside the new China," Mu Jianmei says. Her works are not just demonstrations of skill but are interwoven with emotion, history, and the marks of an era.

When talking about the essence of painting, Mu Jianmei expresses her sentiment: "True art is not about being mysterious and self-indulgent; it’s about resonating with the human heart, transcending borders, races, and identities. Just like the eyes of children—they carry sincerity and purity, and everyone, regardless of nationality or culture, can understand their message."

Today, Mu Jianmei’s works can be found in exhibitions, art books, and publications. Her artistic language is not only a continuation of Chinese painting tradition but also an expression of the times. Her ink wash depictions of childlike joy carry a deep cultural resonance and emotional depth, with each piece standing as a testament to her love for life and her dedication to art.

“Art, after all, is a return—it is a soul's expression that originates from life and transcends life,” Mu Jianmei says softly. “Whether it’s a recollection of childhood or a pursuit of art, my brush holds a world that belongs to me and, at the same time, to every viewer’s shared memory.”

In the world of ink wash, she paints the memories of childhood and illuminates the hearts of those who seek warmth and connection.