Design student Guo Linian exhibits digital paintings
The master’s student from China presented an exhibition of five digital paintings during the defense of his thesis Harbin Phenomenon: Artistic Interpretation of Russian-Chinese Relations in Contemporary Art.
This city in Northeast China was famously founded in 1898 in connection with the construction of the Chinese Eastern Railway. For several decades it was considered a ‘Russian island’ in China.
“Guo Linian’s master’s thesis and art works demonstrate the connection between Russia and China in different spheres,” says his academic advisor, Chair of the Department of Architecture and Media Arts of the Institute of Design and Spatial Arts Stepan Novikov. “For example, the painting St. Sophia’s Cathedral depicts an Orthodox church that stands in the center of Harbin, and the painting Museum of the Far East Railway – Impressions depicts a train, because it was the Russians who built the railroad to this Chinese city. In addition, we have strong trade ties, and the painting Lively Morning is dedicated to them.”
As Novikov explained, the student drew his paintings on a tablet based on photos, using the effect of oil painting, then they were printed on canvas.
“During my studies, I have not only gained a lot of professional knowledge, but also developed my abilities. It would have been difficult for me to cope with the preparation of my thesis if not for the help of teachers and classmates,” Guo Linian admitted. “My supervisor, Dr Novikov, supported me a lot. He helped me to choose a topic and to write my thesis. He was a strict critic and at the same time helped me to correct mistakes and find the necessary information. We edited the master’s thesis many times before submitting it. I am also grateful to the professors for the knowledge I have gained, and to my classmates for their friendly attitude and positive atmosphere.”
According to Guo Linian, he chose Kazan University for his studies because his sister studied here, and he has never regretted his choice.