Gao Fenghan (1683 - 1749) is a Chinese artist closely associated with Eight Eccentrics of Yangzhou (though he is not considered one of the eight), a group of eclectic artists during Qing dynasty China that rejects traditional painting notions, preferring individualism instead. Following the paralysis of his right hand at age fifty-four due to acute rheumatism, Gao painfully trained himself to write and draw with his left hand. By switching to his non-dominant hand, Gao’s art style gains a sense of dynamism that was less apparent when he was drawing with his dominant right hand. His new left-handed style eventually earned him fame, as well as positioned him along with the Eight Eccentrics of Yangzhou.
Chrysanthemums by a Rock is one of Gao’s works after he switched to using his left hand. In the painting, the brushstrokes used by Gao are expressive rather than precise. There is a sense of confident carelessness in his art style: linings curl and overlap, while ink washes often bleed beyond the confines of the outlines. This art style effectively encompasses the verdancy and unruliness of nature, with vigorous lining and colouring used to depict the exuberant bloom of chrysanthemums. His calligraphy seems to parallel his painting style – the characters vary in size, line weight, and spacing, giving the words a sense of naturalness and spontaneity.
Chrysanthemums by a Rock reflects the resilience of the human spirit through nature's quiet strength. Gao Fenghan's bold, left-handed brushwork transforms physical hardship into artistic freedom, allowing the flowers to bloom with remarkable energy and spontaneity. The painting celebrates individuality, proving that true creativity can flourish even in the face of adversity.
