Introduction
Feng Zikai (simplified Chinese: 丰子恺; traditional Chinese: 豐子愷; pinyin: Fēng Zǐkǎi) (November 9, 1898 – September 15, 1975) was an influential Chinese painter, pioneering manhua artist and essay author.
Early Education
He graduated from the Hangzhou High School.
Career
Originating from Tongxiang, Zhejiang Province, Feng Zikai was a contemporary painter, writer, and teacher of music. In his early years, he was taught by the accomplished Hong Yi. In 1921, Feng travelled to Japan to further his studies.
After he returned to China, he taught art and music in Shanghai, Zhejiang and Chongqing respectively, and became the editor of Kaiming Publishing House.
Feng wrote extensively on various topics, including literature, painting, music, translation and calligraphy. Among Feng's numerous creations, his most famous works include short essay collections, such as Yuan-Yuan Tang Sui Bi, Yuan-Yuan Tang Zai Bi, Chexiang Shehui and Shuai Zhen Ji; cartoon collections, like Zikai Cartoons, Children's Cartoons; and translated works, including Diary of a Hunter and The Tale of Genji.
Death
He died in 1975.
Legacy
The Feng Zikai Chinese Children's Picture Book Award, launched in 2009 to promote Chinese children's picture books, is named in honour of the artist.
Quote
In these recent years, my heart has been occupied by four things: deities and stars in the sky, as well as art and children on human earth. My children, who resemble swallows, share the deepest destiny with me, and possess equal standing with deities, stars and art in my heart.