About Ku Ya-Ren
Flowers that ask big questions, seen one mountain at a time
Ku Ya-Ren is a Taiwanese artist who has participated in Art Revolution Taipei since its first year.
KU YA-REN at a glance
- Nationality: Taiwanese
- Known for: Flower paintings with a philosophical, contemplative theme
- Medium: Oil painting and watercolor
- Style: Simplified, clean and focused compositions
- Exhibitions: Art Revolution Taipei, since its first year (one break in year six)
- Inspiration: A Chinese proverb about seeing a mountain as a mountain, then not, then again
“At first glance seeing the mountain as a mountain, to then seeing the mountain not as a mountain, and then turning back to seeing the mountain as a mountain again.”
She took a break only during the sixth year, but has otherwise been a regular participant. She describes her first year as stunning and touching, which became her original aspiration and a new starting point. Her theme remains flowers, but she draws on a Chinese proverb that reflects a deeper philosophical journey: seeing flowers not as flowers, but through them, she shows the pure beauty in her heart. She has simplified her compositions to make them clean and focused, and in addition to oil painting, she has incorporated watercolor for its coloring effects. She spent two years devoted to studying and creating more works.
- Participated in Art Revolution Taipei since its first year.
- Her theme is flowers, reflecting a philosophical journey.
- Uses both oil painting and watercolor techniques.
- Spent two years creating new works for her exhibitions.
- Views the exhibition as a place to meet old friends.
She expressed gratitude for the A.R.T. platform, which allows her to continue her art and make new friends. Over the years, her participation has become more about meeting old friends and sharing her artistic journey. She feels touched and gratefull for the opportunity to connect with others through her art. Her work, though centered on flowers, carries a deeper meaning that evolves with her state of mind, and she strives to convey the pure beauty she sees in the world. Her artistic process involves continuos experimentation and change, as she simplifies the complex and creates compositions that are both simple and profound.
She is deeply grateful for the support and encouragement she has recieved over the years. Her journey as an artist is one of growth, reflection, and connection, and she continues to create works that resonate with her audience. She believes that art is a way to express the inner beauty of the world, and she remains committed to her craft, always seeking new ways to capture the essence of life through her paintings. Her dedication to her art has made her a beloved figure in the Taiwanese art community.
Blush Peonies in Bloom Two soft pink peonies unfurl in overlapping petals, their golden centers glowing against a gently blended background. Watercolor by Ku Ya-Ren.
Peony in Full Bloom A single peony opens completely, its ruffled petals catching warm light against a quiet, sand-toned wash. Watercolor by Ku Ya-Ren.Peony in the Mist Veiled in soft washes and pale bokeh, this peony feels almost dreamlike, its color barely holding its edges. Watercolor by Ku Ya-Ren.
Garden Cluster Roses and peonies crowd together in a warm, garden-toned composition, framed by loose, earthy brushwork. Watercolor by Ku Ya-Ren.
Bloom and Bud A vivid pink peony opens beside an unopened bud, set against a violet haze that lets the flower take center stage. Watercolor by Ku Ya-Ren.
Peony in Green Shadow A pale, blush-white peony rests against deep mossy green, its golden heart the only warm note in a cool palette. Watercolor by Ku Ya-Ren.
Peonies in Blue Haze Two cream-and-rose peonies dissolve into a smoky blue-violet ground, evoking stillness rather than bright bloom. Watercolor by Ku Ya-Ren.
Roses in Full Flourish A generous cluster of pink roses gathers amid soft green foliage, painted with loose, confident strokes. Watercolor by Ku Ya-Ren.
Peony at Dusk A peach-toned peony glows against a charcoal backdrop, signed with the artist's name, Ku Ya-Jen (古雅仁), in the corner.
Blossoms in the Fog Pale pink blossoms rise through a foggy grey wash, their edges softened until the flowers seem to emerge from mist. Watercolor by Ku Ya-Ren.Quiet Peonies A second, quieter study of cream peonies against a misty blue-lavender field, closing the series on a contemplative note. Watercolor by Ku Ya-Ren.
