Faces from reality

He added these faces to his paintings. The scenarios in his depictions do not belong to a certain group of people or a certain city, but reflect a collective image of urban life for migrants.

"He strives to make you feel the agony and anxiety of those who work so hard but gain so little, yet who still dream of a better tomorrow," says Beijing-based art critic Zhang Xiaoling. "They are the faces of the real China. Xin's works always demonstrate an honesty and genuineness that deeply touches our souls."

Although he had achieved prominence in art, Xin still viewed himself an ordinary person, Zhang adds. "I remember years ago at a symposium, I saw him standing among the audience. He declined the offer of a chair to sit with artists, curators and critics. He wanted to be with the masses. He had no intention to be singled out as someone of a higher social status."