Which painting of Mrs Chen Chin do you like most? Why?
Leisurely, because this painting shows the elegant lady, and it perfectly presents the poise of ladies at that time. Her painting including the detail of the womans clothes, the bed ,and the pillow is finely drawn.
What do you think about Mrs Chen Chin's impact on gouache painting?
Mrs Chen Chin, as the first female artist thereupon, drew the characteristics of ladies at the time, which is essential of recording history of Taiwan.
What is the most difficult part of gouache painting?
Gouache painting is very complex, and its materials are quite expensive. We have to spend a lot of time adding layers of paint onto the canvas, and we need the patience to cook glue and mix colors. Because of these reasons, the threshold of gouache painting is a bit higher. Even though, I believe that all people can try it if you are interested in it.
What parts of Mrs Chen Chin's techniques can't you achieve?
Everything, I guess. Mrs Chen Chin is at such a high level that I can't reach it. Now we have technologies to help, but at her time she had to do all the things step by step. This makes us realize that her skills are really, really awesome.
Are there any difficult parts with gouache painting?
Materials and preperation. As you just experienced, it takes a long time just cooking the glue. Unlike watercolor, it isn't that convenient, so it is harder to pass it down to the next generation. We can't just squeeze the paint out of the tube and start painting.
What is different between works of Mrs Chen Chin and other artists?
The women in her paintings. She presented the expression and the temperaments of women without effort because she was a woman herself.
Do you like gouache painting?
Yes, I do. Gouache painting is fascinating, and it's a good training.
Who is your teacher?
Mrs Nie Hui Yun.
What is your advice for the students who are willing to learn gouache painting?
Observe good paintings, and start from imitating. Create your own paintings after you are more familiar with it.