A Journey Through Time: Our Visit to the Esteemed Artists Lü Ruda and Yu Xiaofang

Introduction: Stepping Into a Living Legacy

Nestled in a serene corner of the city of Shengzhou in Zhejiang Province, the villa of octogenarian artists Lü Ruda and his wife Yu Xiaofang stands as a testament to a lifetime devoted to art. Last weekend, the management team of Lian Group embarked on a memorable visit to this historic home, once the heart of an art school operated by the couple for over four decades. The visit offered a rare glimpse into the world of traditional Chinese painting, bridging the past and present through the artists’ enduring passion.

The Artists: Guardians of Tradition

At 83 and 79 years old, Lü Ruda and his wife Yu Xiaofang are revered figures in the realm of traditional Chinese ink wash painting, in the meanwhile his wife is also a pioneer in neo-Chinese style. Their careers span decades, marked by meticulous craftsmanship and a dedication to preserving cultural heritage. Greeting the Lian Group team with warmth, the couple shared stories of their early years—teaching students in the very rooms where they now reside, their hands still steady as they create masterpieces.

A Gallery of Memories: Unveiling Decades of Art

The highlight of the visit was an exclusive viewing of original artworks painted by Lü Ruda decades ago. Among them were striking Shan Shui (landscape) scrolls and delicate floral and bird compositions. Each piece narrated a chapter of China’s artistic evolution, showcasing Lü’s mastery of brushwork and ink techniques. “These works are not just art—they are fragments of history,” remarked Lian Group’s CEO Leo YAO, visibly moved by the couple’s unwavering commitment.

During our visit, we discovered numerous extraordinary original paintings featured in books. We have planned to share more of them in future blogs.

The Villa: Where Past Meets Present

The couple’s home, a charming villa suffused with the scent of ink and aged paper, once buzzed with the energy of aspiring artists. From the 1980s until its closure during the 3-year Covid-19 pandemic in China, the Shengzhou Yuefeng Art School nurtured countless number of art talents. Today, the studios remain active, easels and brushes preserved for visitors and local art lovers’ activities. The management team wandered through corridors adorned with student works, feeling the echoes of creativity that once filled the space.

Conversations on Legacy and Collaboration

During tea time, the discussion turned to the future of traditional art. The Lian Group team expressed admiration for the couple’s legacy and explored ideas for collaboration, such as finding homes for some of his masterpieces that the artist couple indicated their interest to sell, digitizing their archives to allow their artwork to enter everyone’s home in different ways and opportunities of hosting exhibitions abroad despite the current sluggish global art market.

Conclusion: A Living Museum of Passion

As the visit concluded, the Lian Group team left with a renewed appreciation for the custodians of cultural heritage. The villa, now a living museum, reminded all present that art is not merely preserved in galleries—it thrives in the hearts of those who dedicate their lives to it. The couple’s story, etched into every brushstroke and weathered wall, serves as an inspiration to champion tradition in a rapidly modernizing world.

Final Note

This encounter between Lian Group and the legendary artists underscores the power of intergenerational dialogue. In honoring figures like Lü Ruda and Yu Xiaofang, we ensure that the beauty of traditional Chinese painting continues to inspire for decades to come.