Li Kuchan

Li Kuchan (; January 11, 1899 – June 11, 1983), originally named Ying Jie, later changed to Ying, courtesy name Chaosan, later changed to Ligon, and Buddhist name Kuchan, was a Chinese painter. He was born in Gaotang, Shandong.

In 1923, Li Kuchan became the first disciple of Qi Baishi. From then on, he embarked on the path of exploring the integration of Chinese and Western art to reform traditional Chinese painting. Under the careful guidance of Qi Baishi, his artistic skills improved significantly in 1924. Later, he founded the "Nine Friends Art Society" at the National Art Specialized School, with the nine friends being Li Kuchan, Wang Xuetao, Wang Zhongnian, Xu Peixia, Sun Gongfu, He Jixiang, Yan Ailan, Yan Bolong, and Yuan Zhongyi. In the 1930s and 1940s, he, along with Jiang Yunong, Wang Qingfang, and Bai Duozhai, were collectively known as the "Four Eccentrics of Beijing".

Li Kuchan died suddenly due to a heart attack on June 11, 1983, at the age of 86.

Art achievement Li Kuchan in the history of freehand flower-and-bird painting in China, has emerged as a master following the footsteps of artists such as Fa Chang, Xu Wenlong, Ba Da Shan Ren, Wu Changshuo, and Qi Baishi.

Li Kuchan advocated the principle that "the pinnacle of calligraphy leads to painting, and the ultimate in painting involves calligraphy."