Zhao Yannian

This woodcut, which uses oil based ink, has a great deal of impact due to the black and white contrasts and bold cutting.

The artist believes in spontaneity. He will cut, scrape and gouge at the wood but if he does not achieve the effects he desires, he simply abandons the block and starts again.

Zhao Yannian studied in Shanghai and has had a great deal of influence on his fellow artists, both directly through the example of his work and through his teaching.