Yan Wenliang (1893-1988), the founding president of Suzhou Art Academy, is typical of people in the “Suzhou time zone”.
From learning traditional Chinese painting to studying oil painting, and from founding the art school to studying abroad and then returning to China for art education, Yan drew and followed the trajectory of his life based on what he believed were the right things to do.
Today, the Yan Wenliang Memorial Hall stands on the former site of the school, and Yan’s life philosophy is being practiced by many people who dare to break the cultural timeline to create the rhythms of their lives.
Also, life in the “Suzhou time zone” is romantic. As night falls, there is beautiful Kunqu opera singing from the ancient garden Canglang Pavilion which is separated from the Yan Wenliang Memorial Hall by a wall, and a splendid night picture is rolling out. [MORE]