Xu Wei

Xu Wei was a Chinese painter, poet, and playwright from the Ming Dynasty (16th century), renowned for his innovative brushwork and expressive style. He is credited with helping shift Chinese painting towards more personal and spontaneous techniques, breaking traditional conventions. Xu Wei’s work emphasized emotion and individuality, influencing later artists. Besides his artistic contributions, he was also known for his literary talents. His life was marked by personal struggles and eccentricity, which he often reflected in his art. Overall, Xu Wei is celebrated as a pioneering figure who expanded the expressive possibilities of Chinese visual art.