Ink and Brush Leading the Era: An Exploration of the Dilemma and Direction of Contemporary Ink Painting Development

In the context of advocating for the imitation of ancient art, Shi Tao proposed the theory of “Ink and Brush Should Follow the Times” to oppose blindly following the trend and not being influenced by the prevailing atmosphere of the times, thus opening up a new era of landscape painting. In the long history of Chinese painting, ink paintings from different eras all have their unique characteristics of the times. By using different techniques of ink and brush, they showcase the characteristics, thoughts, and spirit of the present era and create completely different painting moods. This article studies the practical significance of “Ink and Brush Should Follow the Times” and explores the dilemma and direction of contemporary ink painting development.