Exhibition honors one of China's key 20th-century talents

"He supported the founding of the Pudong Middle School, the Shanghai East Hospital and collaborated with Qian Hui'an to establish the Yuyuan Calligraphy and Painting Charity Society. These three institutions are still thriving," says Wu Yue, a great-grandson of Wu Changshuo who serves as executive director of the Wu Changshuo Memorial Hall in Shanghai. "Wu Changshuo had a great love for Pudong and Shanghai where he achieved his artistic peak, inspired and influenced by the city.

"The city nurtured him, turning him into a leading figure in the establishment and development of the Shanghai School of Art," he continues. "He also taught many excellent students, such as Pan Tianshou and Liu Haisu, and influenced important artists such as Qi Baishi and Mei Lanfang. Several of these people became cultural pillars of our country."

Wang Yichuan, executive director of the China Art Museum, Shanghai, says the exhibition aims to "not only look back at the glorious history of previous masters and show the cultural heritage of the city but also draw attention to their pursuit for innovation while keeping faith in tradition".

"I believe their approach and principles can still inspire new generations in search of creativity and innovation," Wang Yichuan says.

The exhibition runs until March 31.