Colors, Composition, and Cultural Exchange: Prof. Gao Xiaohua’s Oil Painting Masterclass at AU

The Graduate School of Art and Design at Assumption University of Thailand (AU)  recently welcomed Honorary Dean and acclaimed Chinese artist Professor Gao Xiaohua for a two-day oil painting demonstration workshop that left a lasting impression on both faculty and students.

Recognized as a leading figure in China’s Scar Art movement and the Sichuan School of painting, Professor Gao shared his exceptional artistic expertise under the theme “The Language and Expression of Oil Painting from Life.” Through live portrait painting sessions, he offered systematic guidance on composition, color theory, and expressive brushwork.

“Painting from life is not merely an objective depiction,” Professor Gao remarked. “It is a channel through which the artist conveys personal emotions and artistic vision.”

The workshop served as a core element of the postgraduate practical training program, helping students refine their technical skills while bridging realism with expressive interpretation. The cross-cultural exchange enriched participants’ artistic perspectives and deepened their appreciation of painting as a universal language.

Professor Gao’s approach embodies the School’s commitment to integrating innovation with practice. Looking ahead, the Graduate School of Art and Design plans to invite more world-class artists to contribute to its academic programs—strengthening discipline development, expanding scholarly influence, and cultivating graduates with strong international competitiveness.