Hanging out with Master Leng Jun

A few weeks ago, the Club had the immense privilege and honor to meet with Master Leng Jun, who graciously accepted an impromptu phone call and invited us to visit his home on short notice. Thanks to Jane, a fellow club member, the Club was able to visit Master Leng and meet his assistant. The introduction was made by young artist Ke Ming (more on him later, who is a large panel virtuoso). We all were wanting to see some of Master Leng's works, but unfortunately he was in the middle of doing home renovations. However, we were able to see an amazing master copy he painted of one of Rembrandt's self-portraits, which was hanging in his dining/living room. 

​Master Leng is perhaps one of the most influential hyper-realist in China. His works sell in the millions, and his technique is truly exquisite. Despite his fame and fortune, it was astounding to meet such a kind-hearted, gentle, and unassuming man. It was a living dream come true for me to meet and get to chat with a living master, and the Club enjoyed the pleasure of his company for a very enjoyable evening. I had 10 questions written in my little black book for him, mostly to do with his technical method and materials, but we were only able to get through #2 by the end of 3 hours of very thoughtful conversation about his art journey and his approach to art. He talked at great length about how things have changed since he was growing up in China and the struggles he endured.