Today marks the Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the "Festival of Reunion," a time to admire the full moon symbolizing unity. Traditional customs include eating mooncakes, appreciating the moon, admiring osmanthus flowers, and solving lantern riddles. In this festive spirit, let us enjoy Chung Chen Sun’s 2013 Chinese ink painting, Harmony.

The artwork depicts five chickens, led by a majestic rooster. Chickens (ji) are a homonym for "good fortune" (ji), embodying prosperity and luck—a beloved motif in Chinese culture.

The Artistic Essence of Harmony

1. Refined Brushwork
   Chung Chen Sun’s mastery lies in the economy of strokes. Using bold ink with minimal lines, he captures the essence of the chickens with precision and vitality. Drawing inspiration from classical masters like Xu Wei, Bada Shanren, and the Yangzhou School, he incorporates calligraphic techniques into his painting, blending ancient simplicity with robust expressiveness. The rooster, with its striking red comb and sharp gaze, is rendered with seamless, interwoven strokes that exude energy and poise.

2. Rich Symbolism and Humor
   While rooted in tradition, Chung transcends mere replication, imbuing his work with personality and charm. He pursues an accessible elegance that resonates with audiences. In Harmony, the anthropomorphic depiction of the rooster narrating to the four chicks creates a delightful and dynamic interaction, blending sophistication with a touch of whimsy.

3. Ingenious Composition
   The painting employs sharp contrasts—between black and white, bold and delicate lines, and vibrant red highlights—to create rhythm and balance. Chung’s philosophy of “intention before execution” ensures a bold yet controlled composition. Every stroke reflects his profound calligraphic skill and understanding of spatial harmony.

A Mid-Autumn Reflection

Chung Chen Sun’s Harmony is an apt companion for the Mid-Autumn Festival. Its playful elegance and underlying themes of unity and good fortune mirror the holiday’s essence. Paired with mooncakes and tea, this painting invites us to embrace the warmth of family and the joy of togetherness under the luminous full moon.