July 15, 2024 Image Ren, a pivotal figure in Chinese art, revolutionized the industry by introducing acrylic paint in the late 1990s, previously unavailable in China. Jay Coogan, former Minneapolis College of Art and Design president, lauded Ren's efforts, stating, "Ren is a master of his chosen craft, working with pigment and ink on paper. However, the means by which he has chosen to work also gives these materials a great voice in its ultimate form." Ren's advocacy secured $50,000 worth of acrylic paints through a tour of American factories, enabling Chinese artists to compete globally. His initiatives include bilateral academic exchanges and acclaimed programs at institutions like the China Academy of Art and Shanghai Academy of Fine Arts, where he leads as faculty head. Learn More Painting across borders (chinadaily.com.cn—June 24, 2024)