Modern watercolor painting had originated in Europe and was introduced to China over a century ago. While it differs from traditional Chinese ink painting in basic technique and concepts, the two styles incorporate many of the same painting tools and methods. As a result, watercolors soon became popular among Chinese artists and Chinese people. More than 100 years of experimentation and practice in watercolor painting have made it one of the most popular art forms in China.

In recent years the artistic ability and global scope of China's watercolor painting has developed remarkably and many talented artists have made their mark around the world. Their paintings feature diverse forms and a wide range of subjects, and have profound connotations. These works have been exhibited throughout the country and the world to accurately portray the realities of modern-day China. These artists have made major breakthroughs in painting concepts as well as technique -- from a single concrete and realistic approach to a variety of artistic expressions using exaggeration, transfiguration, decoration and abstraction.

Chinese watercolor painting is a natural blend of both Western and Chinese art traditions. It crosses the boundaries of both eastern and western art, and is enjoyed by people in all parts of the world.

Although contemporary Chinese watercolor painters still favor traditional subjects, in the past decade or so there has been a new development trend. Instead of the ancient flat picture plane, many new artists employ the Western three-dimensional perspective in their works.

In their works, these artists aspire towards a decidedly romantic overall feeling: There is calmness in these paintings that Western artists seldom achieve. Chinese watercolor artists are highly trained graduates from leading art academies in China. Most of them have studied for a decade or more, and many have held or still hold teaching positions at these institutions. In China, being a highly regarded artist or teacher is a great honor.

Yang Ruifen, Wang Fu Sheng and Zhang Guizen are some of China's most talented watercolor artists.