This is my 1602nd painting ,and the 1st Draft for Beginner. 

This is the first draft I have prepared is for beginners. Meihua, also known as Plum Blossom, is one of the traditional flower subjects in Chinese painting. Due to its symbolic meanings and ability to bloom in the cold with icy beauty, it has been praised by many poets and painters. Every student learning Chinese painting needs to learn this subject because it symbolizes certain aspects of Chinese culture.

We admire Plum Blossom for its noble, unsullied nature as well as being strong, brave, and modest characteristics. It blooms during early springtime or even amidst snowfall, signifying not only the arrival of spring but also smiling among other blooming flowers. As a result, over thousands of years, plum blossom has gained special recognition from both poets and artists.

In folklore, it is a symbol of announcing good news and carries the meanings of luck, safety, and beauty. Therefore, it is also associated with pretty girls.

In China, if you want to send flowers to someone, Meihua / Plum Blossom can be one of your choices.

1) If you send Plum Blossoms to elders, it means that you would like to wish them luck.

2) If you send some plum blossoms with a strong fragrance to your lover, it expresses your sincerity and love.

3) If you send some plum blossoms to your friends, it is a higher form of praise for them.

So, now you know some of the interesting symbols of plum blossoms, right? Would you like to paint one with me?

If you have any questions, comments or suggestions, you are welcome to write to info@ebridge.cn. :-)

--Shirley Yiping Zhang

Painted on August 17, 2023 in China
Written on December  29, 2024 in Australia