What are the similarities and differences between Chinese and European painting arts?

Similarity: Both are true reflections of the natural world and human society.

Difference: The way they perceive and represent the real world differs. In brief, traditional Chinese and Western painting represent the two major figurative artistic systems in the world, both of which belong to representational art. However, Western painting follows a realistic approach, while Chinese painting is based on an expressive style. Chinese painting, particularly, is the most reflective of traditional culture and philosophy, as it embodies the core thoughts of a national art form.

In traditional Chinese society, the emphasis was on human relationships, and Chinese philosophy was founded on ethics. In contrast, Western societies focused more on the relationship between humans and nature, with Western philosophy grounded in the sciences, particularly physics.

Chinese traditional painting is expressive in nature, meaning it does not aim for realistic representation of objective objects. Instead, it emphasizes the enjoyment of brushwork and ink, focusing on the artistic expression and spirit behind the painting. Chinese art promotes the concept of "harmony between heaven and humanity," reflecting the balanced relationship between humans and nature, as portrayed through the emotions conveyed in the scenery. This is a fusion of emotions and landscapes, leading to unity between subject and object, form and spirit, as expressed by Qi Baishi: "The charm of painting lies in the balance between resemblance and non-resemblance; too much resemblance is vulgar, and too little resembles deception."

Western traditional painting, on the other hand, is figurative, focusing on realistic depictions of objects, light, and environments, grounded in the principles of natural science. It emphasizes empirical evidence and logical reasoning. Russian art educator Chistyakov once said, "Drawing is thinking; it is logical reasoning." Drawing, oil painting, watercolor, and pastels—all Western traditions—are essentially realistic forms of art. The beauty of realism comes from the sense of truth and reality conveyed through basic forms and color relationships, directly reflecting the real world. This represents the fundamental distinction between Chinese and Western painting.