More than 70 works by noted northern artist and calligrapher Wang Limin were exhibited at the Daejeon MBC Art Museum in South Korea from June 25 to July 1, a first by a foreign artist.

Wang's paintings, calligraphy and seal cuttings "reflect the traditional culture and art of North China, which has had a major influence in Daejeon art circles", said Daejeon Art Association Chairman Choi Nam In.

MBC is one of the three national television broadcasters in South Korea.

The exhibit shows Wang's deep insights and versatile skills, said art critics.

Wang, also known as Mu Gong, studied at the Department of Fine Arts at Harbin Normal University with many renowned masters as his teachers.

Chao Mei and Jia Pingxi were his tutors in painting, You Shou and Zhou Qi instructed him in calligraphy, and Liu Jiang and Wu Yiren were his tutors in seal engraving.

Though greatly influenced by his teachers, Wang has also developed his own style combining traditional and modern elements.

His paintings, calligraphy and seal engravings have been displayed in many international and domestic exhibitions.

He has also published hundreds of articles on literature, paleography, history and aesthetics as well as art books including Wang Limin Sealing Manuscript, Wang Limin Paintings and History of Modern Calligraphy, which he co-authored.

Wang has also acquired many titles and awards including vice-president of the Heilongjiang Writers Association, member of the China Artists Association, member of academic committee of the China Calligraphers Association, member of the Xiling Seal Society, vice-president of the Heilongjiang Calligraphers Association and member of the Heilongjiang Artists Association.

(China Daily November 2, 2010)