Exhibition in Shenzhen spotlights passion for Chinese zodiac

He also reaches out to folk art, drawing inspiration from its diverse color schemes. Beginning in 1977, Han led a series of what he referred to as "art caravans", whereby he, and staff members at the Han Meilin Art Foundation, would tour rural areas all across China. Han painted for farmers and the team delivered education materials to children along the way.

Over the years, Han was able to collect handicrafts from the places he visited and was amazed by the creativity of the people. He integrated the visual elements into his creations, evoking among the audience a feeling of nostalgia and warmth.