Wu Guanzhong adopted the techniques and color schemes of oil paintings to reform the style of classic Chinese ink paintings. He was also inspired by the natural scenery and ancient architecture from his native country to create oil works that are exuberant with an elegant, philosophical touch of Chinese culture.

"Day and night, I stand firmly on the soil of my home, and I embrace the motherland, feeling her warmth and pulse all the time," he said.

Zhang Fuye, a former student of Wu Guanzhong and currently a professor at Tsinghua University's Academy of Arts and Design, says his teacher asked them to learn about Chinese art traditions and absorb their essential elements, and he especially spoke highly of the poetic atmosphere and philosophical depth conveyed in classic landscape paintings.

"A serious, upright man, he shouldered a strong responsibility for the development of Chinese art and culture," Zhang says.

Wu Guanzhong once said he hoped his paintings would be praised by his former teachers and artist friends in France, while also pleasing ordinary viewers like rural women with little knowledge of art.

He said, "If people miss me, just go to see my paintings."