Beijing forum explores contemporary literati aesthetics

Veteran auctioneer Ma Xuedong observed that Shen's recent works, which feature mundane objects like apples and plants, differ significantly from his earlier paintings which primarily consisted of portraits.

"In his youth, Mr. Shen participated in many sensational art events and was involved in the Chengdu artist community. However, in his artistic creations, he has always maintained some distance from the mainstream art market," Ma remarked.

"Shen radiates the charisma of a traditional Chinese intellectual, which is evident in both his paintings and his writings," Ma added.

He praised Shen's literati temperament and his ability to transition flexibly between different mediums.

Ma attributed the artist's return to the tradition of literati painting, despite Shen's long exposure to contemporary Western art during his years in the U.S., to the profound appeal of traditional Chinese culture, especially as one ages.

Chen the gallerist and Wu the young collector, both shared that Shen's work strongly resonated with them and made them feel at ease.

"The connection I have with an artist's work and the enjoyment it brings me are two important factors that influence my decision to collect it," Wu stated.