Traditional Chinese painting is divided into free sketch and realism. The two, obviously, use different techniques. Free sketch uses bold and rough lines to draw; outlines of landscapes and figures while the realistic painting reflects the details of objects.

Apart from traditional Chinese painting, Western art styles, such as oil painting, engraving and watercolors, have also developed in China. At present, many Chinese painters combine traditional Chinese painting techniques with Western styles, and thus, their work is becoming more diversified.