03/02/2025

MONDAY | FEB 3, 2025

22

LYFE

Musical strokes o Painter Sim Li Wei lets rhythms guide her brush

Ű BY S.TAMARAI CHELVI

F OR Sim Li Wei, a Chinese brush painter since she was 10 years old, paintings connect deeply with her soul. Each stroke is a journey into self-discovery and an opportunity for expression. Over the years, Sim, who hails from Klang, has completed an incalculable number of paintings on various canvases. With music in the background, Sim, 30, takes just 10 minutes to paint a mesmerising image of peonies, birds and butterflies. In her art, she often blends the traditional with contemporary elements. Deeply connected to soul “Chinese brush painting has taught me the importance of simplicity, the value of patience and mindfulness. Each stroke is deliberate and must reflect a deep connection to the subject, whether it is a flower, bird or landscape. “The process encourages me to slow down, focus and express emotions through the flow of the brush, rather than relying on perfection. “It connects with my inner self by fostering a sense of calm and balance. The quiet, meditative nature of the practice helps me reflect internally, allowing me to express my thoughts and feelings without words. This makes the painting not just an external creation, but a personal journey of self-expression and discovery,” Sim told theSun . Passion to paint Her artworks allow her to connect deeply with tradition and nature. “I love using watercolors and pencil sketches in my work to bring out delicate details and vibrant colours while maintaining the fluidity and simplicity that Chinese brush

Sim’s artworks allow her to connect deeply with tradition and nature.

Birds, butterflies, flowers “Flora and butterflies have always been a major focus in my work because they symbolise life, beauty and transformation. The delicate details of flowers and the fluid motion of butterflies offer endless inspiration and I love how they evoke feelings of grace and freedom. “However, I have also explored other themes such as mountains and rivers, which represent nature’s strength and tranquility, as well as human figures that capture emotion and storytelling through brushstrokes,” she said. Traditional and contemporary Unlike many traditional painters, Sim experiments by bringing together different elements. “I enjoy blending traditional Chinese brush painting with more modern or contemporary elements. While I deeply respect the classical techniques and themes, I think it is exciting to experiment with different media such as painting on fans, lanterns or red paper. “These materials bring a fresh perspective to the art and I find that they make the work more accessible to a wider audience.

A close-up of Sim’s painting featuring peonies.

painting is known for. “The technique itself is unique because it combines calligraphy with painting, where each brushstroke holds meaning and emotion. It is all about capturing the spirit of the subject, whether it is a flower, bird or landscape, rather than just a realistic representation,” she explained.

Sim posing with her painting.

traditional elements.”

and

contemporary

“By using these traditional techniques in a modern context, I can keep the art alive and relevant while also introducing people to the beauty and depth of Chinese brush painting in a fun and engaging way. It is all about striking that balance between tradition and innovation,” she said. Apart from this, she also dabbles in Chinese calligraphy and hopes to experiment with rainbow painting. “It is all about continuing to evolve and explore new ways to combine

Sim meticulously applying brush strokes to paper.

Melodic inspiration Music plays a significant role in her painting as it sparks ideas she skillfully transfers onto canvas. She often listens to music while painting – sometimes, she dances a little too. “Music is integral to my creative process in Chinese brush painting, helping to create flow and rhythm in my strokes. Traditional Chinese instruments such as the gu zheng or erhu set the mood, allowing me to align my brush movements with the music’s fluidity. “This creates a meditative, almost dance-like quality in the painting. I also listen to ambient or classical music for focus, letting the rhythm guide my brush and enhance the connection to the subject,” said Sim. Colours of life Sim took interest in painting when she was young, as her father is an artist who teaches Chinese brush painting. “I was fascinated by how a few simple brushstrokes could create such beautiful and expressive works of art. “He patiently taught me the basics, and over time, I grew to appreciate the depth and tradition behind this ancient art form. It felt like a way to connect with my heritage and express

emotions through each brushstroke. That early exposure not only ignited my passion but also gave me a lifelong appreciation for the art.

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Sim also dabbles in Chinese calligraphy. – ALL PICS COURTESY OF SIM LI WEI

One of Sim’s completed works, complete with painted flowers.