By Shu Xin and Moira
The exhibition of finalists for the 7th NTD International Portrait Painting Competition opened on Tuesday, Jan. 20, at the historic Salmagundi Club in Manhattan, New York City.
This international event aims to honor artists who uphold the eternal values of “purity, goodness, and beauty” — a principle that has shaped the historical legacy of classical painting and continues to guide its revival. The organizers stated that 78 shortlisted works were selected from 406 entries submitted by 304 participants from 51 countries.
A feast of classical realism
In this rapidly changing era, these works evoke a reflection on the timeless meaning of art — elevating the human spirit. Every brushstroke is filled with focus, humility, and clarity, revealing the artist’s inner understanding of beauty and treating it as a form of spiritual expression. This is art not only for the eyes but also for the soul.
The final exhibition showcases works that reflect the highest standards of classical realism, created by artists who deepen the humanistic meaning of painting and use beauty to express human dignity.
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Mr. Zhang Kunlun, chairman of the NTD Oil Painting Competition jury, stated: “The shortlisted artists increasingly understand the competition’s purpose of ‘purity, goodness, and beauty.’ The content and style of the works basically follow this principle, with a certain breadth and depth, exploring deeper, more essential questions, expressing great beauty, great tolerance, and great goodness… showing progress.” He also advised young artists: “Young people tend to follow trends, but they should actually return to tradition and clearly understand the mission they carry.”
Among these extraordinary paintings, the largest work, The Dance of the Divine, is particularly striking. It depicts a sacred scene experienced by an audience watching a Shen Yun performance in a theater: their souls are elevated and soar, joining the divine beings in music and dance around the Supreme Creator. The composition is vast, with numerous figures and vibrant, distinct colors — truly magnificent and radiant.
Meanwhile, The Holy Creator by Slovenian artist Nik Anikis also drew attention. His work presents the image of the Creator in his heart, with countless stars reflecting the vastness of the universe and the smallness of humanity. This was Nik Anikis’ first participation in the NTD Oil Painting Competition, and upon learning the competition’s purpose, he immediately resonated: “NTD brings together people who pursue beauty and sincerity. This is a very important value — exactly what the world needs. This competition carries a lofty mission; it is more than just a contest… its meaning goes far beyond that, which is the most important thing.”
Additionally, Lucy Cui, the author of the historically themed painting Midnight Ride, explained that she initially wanted to depict George Washington crossing the Delaware but, for various reasons, chose a smaller-scale historical subject. “Paul Revere’s Midnight Ride, with just one person, one horse, one lantern… I also loved the story’s meaning: even one person must do the right thing and deliver news to the American army… while painting, I felt that you are never truly alone. As long as you do the right thing, divine guidance will protect and guide you… so I added the moonlight as well.”
When a pure heart meets exquisite skill, inspiration bursts forth, and art reaches its pinnacle. In New York City, this inspiration once again comes alive. Audiences are encouraged not to miss the chance to experience and appreciate these outstanding works of art.
About the oil painting competition
The NTD International Portrait Painting Competition is part of a global cultural arts initiative by New Tang Dynasty Television (NTD), aimed at promoting enduring traditional art. The competition encourages the excellence of Western oil painting and provides artists an international platform to showcase their skills, vision, and dedication to reviving classical realism.
The competition draws inspiration from the lofty traditions of China’s Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE), widely regarded as a golden age of spiritual and cultural achievement. Upholding this spirit, the competition emphasizes virtues such as goodness, compassion, and pure beauty — values that transcend time and culture.
Exhibition of Finalist Works of the NTD International Portrait Painting Competition