He paid tribute to Zhu, a painter monk from the 17th century, by often imitating the unique way Zhu drew the eyes of birds and fishes-they always look up.

"But the two expressed different mentalities by using this distinctive approach of showing the whites of the eyes," Liu says.

"While Zhu showed a lofty, seclusive attitude in his works, Wang conveyed a feeling of vigor. He wanted us to feel the interests of life and the importance of tolerance and inclusion."

Employing the rules of formation and color scheme of Western art was another way Wang used to modernize the classical art.

Wang increased the luminosity and density of colors to make his works more eye-catching, while preserving the elegance of Chinese paintings.

Wu says Wang grounded his work on a solid technique of formation that he had acquired at school, and his strokes were exuberant with energy. Wu also says the enthusiasm he felt at the exhibition opening reminded him of another exhibition of Wang's art held a decade ago at his academy, which proved that Wang's popularity has not waned with passing time.

"Many people came to that exhibition not only because they liked Wang's paintings, but also because many of them learn how to paint peony flowers from Wang," Wu says.

"His art has wide popularity among people. The cultural power of his paintings still resonate in our hearts and minds."a