Adam Shen Xu Dong/沈旭东 （ b.1965)
Pine-like Age and Crane-like Longevity
松龄鹤寿
Chinese Ink on Rice Paper/宣纸水墨画
68 x 68 cm
In Pine-like Age and Crane-like Longevity Shen brings to life the timeless theme of longevity. A pair of red-crowned cranes—icons of grace, purity, and long life—stand poised on a pine-covered cliff, gazing serenely across a sea of clouds toward distant mountains.
The pine tree, rugged and steadfast, stretches across the painting with weathered elegance. In traditional Chinese culture, the pine tree is revered for its endurance and vitality, often associated with the ability to thrive even in harsh conditions.
The title of the work, “松龄鹤寿” (Pine-like Age and Crane-like Longevity), is a classical Chinese idiom. It fuses two potent symbols of longevity—the ancient pine and the red-crowned crane—to express auspicious wishes for health and vitality. This idiom has long been used in poetry, calligraphy, and art to honour elders or to convey blessings during important life milestones.
Shen’s statement about this artwork:
“松龄鹤寿是传统文化中象征长寿的吉祥之意，表达对健康长寿的美好祝愿。”
‘Pine-like age and crane-like longevity’ is an auspicious symbol of longevity in traditional Chinese culture, expressing a heartfelt wish for health and a long life.
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.
SIMS GALLERIA 