Chu Teh Chun

Chu Teh-Chun, one of the most prominent Chinese-born French abstract artists, masterfully bridged Eastern tradition with Western modernism, creating deeply emotional landscapes that transcend cultural boundaries. Born in China’s Jiangsu Province, Chu studied at the prestigious Nanjing School of Fine Arts before moving to Paris in 1955, where he was profoundly influenced by the abstract expressionism of the European avant-garde. His work is celebrated for its bold fusion of lyrical abstraction and traditional Chinese painting techniques, creating a unique visual language that evokes both the grandeur of nature and the intricacies of human emotion.

Chu Teh Chun, Sans titre, 1970

Chu's compositions, such as Lumière de l’Orient and Le Fleuve des Oiseaux, captivate viewers through their dynamic brushstrokes and striking interplay of color and form. The tension between geometric rigor and free-flowing gestures draws the observer into a profound dialogue with the landscape—both personal and universal. His landscapes, often imbued with symbolism, radiate a deep sense of spirituality and reflection, bringing the viewer into a meditative experience.

His paintings stir emotions by engaging with the intangible: the vastness of the cosmos, the rhythm of nature, and the introspective silence of memory. His works continue to move audiences by offering a sense of serenity, while also sparking a visceral connection to the energies of the natural world.

Chu Teh Chun, T13, 1993

Chu Teh Chun, Rouge lourd et vert leger, 1959

Chu Teh Chun, No. 268, 1968

After decades of success in Paris, Chu lived and worked in various places, including Switzerland, where he retired. His legacy endures as an artist who sought to harmonize the temporal with the eternal, leaving a lasting imprint on the world of contemporary art.