Gaining insights into the allure of Hunan, a group of 26 students from the Qi Baishi Art Research Class at Xiangtan Institute of Technology embarked on an artistic journey on February 23. They visited the "Qi Baishi and the Century-Long Wind and Clouds of Hunan" academic forum and the "Moonlight Shines on Home Mountain – Qi Baishi's Fine Collection from the Beijing Academy of Painting" exhibition at the Hunan Art Museum. By immersing themselves in the world of art, they sought to understand the stories of Qi Baishi and his homeland in Hunan, exploring the profound influence of Qi Baishi on Hunan art. Professor Zhu Tianshu, the chief professor of Xiangtan Institute of Technology, attended the academic forum as a guest speaker, engaging in discussions on relevant topics with renowned experts and scholars.

**Learning about Hunan Culture**

*Brushing Hunan's Scenery, Embarking on a New Journey*

Art is a vivid expression of culture, showcasing the rich cultural landscape of Hunan. The picturesque landscapes vividly depict the cultural atmosphere of Hunan, allowing a visual experience of the grand development of Hunan over the past century.

At the "Qi Baishi and the Century-Long Wind and Clouds of Hunan" academic forum held in the lobby of the Hunan Art Museum, Wu Hongliang, a National Committee member of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) and the president of the Beijing Academy of Painting, introduced the "Moonlight Shines on Home Mountain – Qi Baishi's Fine Collection from the Beijing Academy of Painting" exhibition and the forum.

Wu Hongliang expressed that the life of art is endless. "We should be proud and confident to say that Qi Baishi is not only alive but also vivid. Today, we should connect Qi Baishi with the land of Hunan as much as possible, deeply exploring the past and future of Hunan's artistic development."

The speeches and discussions by experts enhanced the deep understanding of Qi Baishi's works among the students of the Qi Baishi Art Research Class, allowing them to profoundly feel the artistic sentiments combining life and art, and appreciate the Oriental aesthetic meaning embodying Chinese cultural values.

**Experiencing Artistic Elegance Beyond the Classroom**

*Keen Eyes Capturing*

*Interaction Area in the Art Museum*

Viewing, capturing, reading – enabling the students to deeply experience

Art leads to beautiful experiences and sublime influences, just like the deep waters of Peach Blossom Pond and the winding mountain roads that stretch for thousands of miles. The students of the Qi Baishi Art Research Class, immersed in the visual feast of painting and calligraphy, savored the affection for Hunan portrayed in the works of Mr. Qi Baishi and indulged in the dreamy digital light and music.

During the exhibition, through active interaction, students learned about Qi Baishi's life story, the composition and style of his artworks, and the reasons why he could break free from the constraints of his time. Under the guidance of teachers, the students also gained knowledge related to "poetry, calligraphy, painting, and seal engraving," enhancing their aesthetic and artistic appreciation through this unique art exchange.

**Appreciating the Charm of Light and Shadow**

*Interweaving of Light and Shadow*

*Collision of Technology and Art*

*Colorful and Smooth Lines*

The paintings shine brightly before our eyes, lifelike and vivid.

The academic exhibition "The Century-Long Artistic Road of Hunan" reviews the history of Hunan's regional art through literature, research writings, artistic works, and modern technological means, providing a systematic and vivid understanding of the achievements in Hunan's artistic development.

**Cultivating Sentiments**

*Lu Qi, a student from the New Media Class 2202 and a member of the Qi Baishi Art Research Class, had a love for traditional Chinese painting since childhood. Through this research activity, she gained a deeper understanding of Qi Baishi's unique artistic atmosphere, enhancing her aesthetic realm and artistic appreciation abilities. She said, "On the one hand, I feel that I have learned some artistic techniques of traditional Chinese painting and perceived the charm of art. On the other hand, I am fortunate to have the opportunity to appreciate these ancient paintings with artistic spirit."**

Participating in this research activity, Wang Xiaojin from the New Media Class 2202 believes that the goal of cultivating artistic sentiments has been achieved. Through the appreciation of the Qi Baishi exhibition, she gained a deeper understanding of Qi Baishi's artistic style. "This research activity has allowed me to better understand the close connection between Qi Baishi and Hunan culture, enhancing my aesthetic value of visual art."

**Standing Before the Paintings**

*Engaging in a Dialogue with the Soul*

*Feeling the Expression and Intent of the Artist*

*Understanding the Development Process of the Era*

Striving to be inheritors of Hunan culture, the research journey of Xiangtan Institute of Technology continues!