Chao Shao-an (1905–1998) came of age at a tumultuous time in Chinese history, as the Qing dynasty ended after more than two and a half centuries of rule. Meanwhile, the country’s first formal art schools were founded. Chao endeavored, like his masters, “to learn from Nature but be inspired by inner sensibility.” He cofounded the Lingnan Art Studio in Guangzhou (Canton) to teach and promote this vital, fresh approach. This calendar’s paintings are characteristic of Chao’s free, fluid brushwork, his use of vibrant color, and his inventive compositions.