A man of art and nature

Tsinghua University Art Museum held an exhibition in 2021 to showcase Zhu's methods for drawing details in pen draft sketches, then filling them in with color for the final paintings.

"This time, we are focusing on his celebration of life and awe of the rules of the universe by integrating the tree, birds, flowers, men, and mountains into a full showcase of his paintings," Sun says.

"He left a body of work that goes beyond a loyal depiction of what he saw. Through a rainforest leaf or a flower petal, he ultimately pursued the beauty of harmony between men and living things, this world and the cosmos."

Flowers, as important components in Zhu's art, are also under the exhibition's spotlight, including a painting depicting various potted flowers, as well as Magnolia Blossom. Completed in 1976, it is recognized as one of Zhu's signature pieces.