Adam Shen Xudong / 沈旭东（ b.1965)

Happiness
歡喜
Chinese Calligraphy Ink on Rice Paper/宣纸书法
62 x 122cm (with frame), 50 x 100cm (calligraphy piece)

Shen presents the two characters 「歡喜」—Joy and Delight, or simply, Happiness—as both a visual mantra and emotional offering. The powerful brushstrokes exude confidence and vitality, each stroke dancing between strength and elegance, reflecting the very nature of joy: full, uncontained, and deeply felt.

Alongside the bold characters, the vertical inscription reads:

“常懷歡喜之心，漫步人生道路”
“Always carry a joyful heart, and walk freely through life’s journey.”

The phrase reflects a deeply philosophical spirit through Daoist and Buddhist tones, suggesting that happiness is not a fleeting mood, but a cultivated state of mind—one that empowers us to face the world lightly and openly.

This scroll stands not only as an artwork but as a living affirmation—a visual invocation of presence, peace, and the enduring power of joy.

Artist Description

Adam Shen Xudong 沈旭东: A Renowned Master of Ink Painting and Calligraphy

Adam Shen Xudong, (b. 1965), is the founder of Sims Arts Academy Pte. Ltd. in Singapore. Together with his family, he established Sims Galleria to promote high art forms such as Chinese ink painting and calligraphy, which have garnered widespread admiration from the public.

Born in Shantou City (Swatow), Adam hails from a family with a long tradition in painting and calligraphy. His grandfather was a peranakan from Southeast Asia, with his influence, Adam began learning calligraphy and painting at a young age, eventually studying under renowned art masters.

He further honed his skills at the China Academy of Art, where he developed profound traditional techniques in landscape, bird-and-flower and figure painting.

Adam holds several esteemed positions in the art world: he is a director of the Chinese Artists Association, Chinese Calligraphers Association, the Shantou Overseas Friendship Association and a member of the Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce. His works are highly prized by collectors across Southeast Asia, Europe, and America.