Artist's works an exuberance of vigor and scholarly temperament

Spring is probably the best time to visit Jiangnan, referring to the south of the lower reaches of the Yangtze River, where the natural world is awakening and the warm breeze breathes life to all living creatures. The thriving scenes often remind one of a slowly-paced, richly-cultured life led by those living in the traditional courtyard residences in the ancient times.

This feeling of spring and the old-style life is vividly delivered in the ink works of He Xianqian.

Her paintings now on show at Yunjian Arts Centre in Shanghai through May 18 exhibit a consistent individual exploration with themes of springtime, Jiangnan and courtyard gardens, and a symphony of light and shadow. The works are displayed in a room full of a scholarly atmosphere as it is decorated with wood furniture pieces in the traditional style.