Artistic Hideaway

Founded by renowned artist Li Zijian and his wife Wang Dansui (also known by pen name Danhui), Li Zijian Art Museum shines like a gem along the bank of the Xiangjiang River in Yanghu National Wetland Park, Xiangjiang New Area, serving as a tranquil escape from the urban bustle of Changsha. Since it opened in October 2016, the museum has attracted over eight million visitors and art enthusiasts with unique architectural design, diverse art exhibitions, and convenient facilities, making it one of the top destinations in the city.
A trip into the art museum inevitably begins with the tranquility of Swan Lake. On the shimmering surface of the lake, several black swans glide gracefully, complementing the nearby museum. The main building features simple lines and follows the design concept of “round heaven and square earth,” placing the exhibition halls, Water Concert Hall, Water Art Restaurant, and International Art Bookstore under a giant circular structure. Light filters through the building, casting shadows in the spacious central corridor and creating an ethereal and profound artistic atmosphere.

Inside the museum, over 6,000 square meters of dedicated exhibition halls display paintings from
throughout Li Zijian’s 40-year artistic career. Born in 1954, Li Zijian moved to the United States in 1988. Since the 1990s, he has produced a significant number of realist oil paintings on the themes of “humanity and love” and toured over 30 countries across the world and nearly 30 major cities in China with large-scale solo exhibitions. The more than 300 works on display primarily feature portraits, characterized by vibrant colors and delicate, lively brushwork, reflecting the artist’s love and insights into humanity, nature, and society.
In the five temporary exhibition halls, high-level art exhibitions and cultural events featuring both domestic and international artists are held. Recent shows have included a rare collection of works by renowned Chinese painter Qi Baishi (1864-1957), a major exhibition of works by contemporary German artist Anselm Kiefer, an exhibition for Italian master Sandro Trotti, and a series of outstanding sketches by students and teachers from the Repin Academy of Fine Arts in Russia. The Hunan Children’s Art Biennale, launched in 2021, has set a record with over one million visitors. The museum boasts high exhibition standards and international influence, making it one of Changsha’s most popular museums.

The museum also hosts academic lectures, music performances, and artist residency programs, attracting numerous artists and scholars from both home and abroad and thus creating an ideal platform for international art exchange. Utilizing digital technology, it has launched projects like the “Virtual Museum” and “Online Exhibitions,” empowering audiences to appreciate art from anywhere at any time. Additionally, the museum organizes youth art education activities to inspire children’s interest and creativity in art, making it an excellent “aesthetic education classroom.”

While strolling along Swan Lake next to the museum, one might see children sketching and elderly people basking in the sun, scenes that bring contentment to Li Zijian. Visitors may also encounter the artist himself in the museum, posing for photos or signing autographs. “The museum will only have lasting vitality if it connects with communities and the people,” Li said.