Yan Dehui was only 13 years old when he began his apprenticeship as a sculptor while continuing his schooling, unaware that he was embarking on an extraordinary artistic journey that would take him to the other side of the world. He first trained under Zhu Zichang, a specialist in boxwood sculpture and a recognized master in the Zhejiang province, where the young boy is from. Five years of study were enough for him to master the art of direct carving, and by 18, he was already an accomplished sculptor in this field. From a young age, Yan Dehui was profoundly influenced by traditional Chinese art, to which he would return during his mature years.

However, the first part of the 20th century saw significant changes in the country. The time was ripe for modernization, whether industrial, scientific, or cultural, and this modernization was fueled by technical contributions from the West. Several academies had already been created based on the model of the Paris Fine Arts, including the Shanghai Academy of Fine Arts (SAFA), led by the painter Liu Haisu. It was here that Yan Dehui discovered Western art, characterized by the study of anatomy from live models, a complete departure from Chinese tradition. He learned new techniques, mainly modeling, casting, and patina.

After obtaining his diploma, he became his professor’s assistant and collaborated on the creation of his works before joining SAFA as a sculpture professor. His teaching practice, which allowed him to share his knowledge and passion for sculpture, reinforced his commitment to the arts and expanded his influence within the artistic community. His initial training in China provided him with essential skills and a unique perspective that enriched his subsequent work and laid the foundation for his future projects.

His participation in the first National Art Exhibition and his personal production, both public and private, earned him recognition in the Chinese art scene. His career was launched. However, he still had a thirst for learning and wanted to broaden his horizons. Between the 1920s and 1940s, nearly 150 artists responded to the government’s call, encouraging them to seek modernity at its source. Yan Dehui decided to join them and chose Europe, immersing himself in the vibrant and diverse artistic environment of France.

His stay in Paris, the epicenter of the global art scene, was marked by a period of profound revelation and progress. In France, Yan Dehui studied under prominent sculptors, embracing the Western academic tradition while perfecting his technique. The richness of Paris’s artistic atmosphere, filled with innovation and creativity, provided the ideal setting for his development. He spent countless hours in museums and workshops, experimenting with different styles and materials, gradually refining his art.

During his time in Europe, Yan Dehui formed lasting friendships with artists, scientists, and intellectuals, creating a network of support and inspiration that played a crucial role in his artistic evolution. These relationships enriched his personal and professional life, offering him new perspectives and collaboration opportunities that fueled his creativity.

Yan Dehui’s unique ability to synthesize these diverse influences brought attention to his undeniable expertise and distinctive style, occasionally merging East and West. This period of his life was characterized by intense creative activity, leading him to participate in numerous exhibitions at prestigious salons.

As he evolved as an artist, Yan Dehui established himself on the French art scene with his ability to capture the essence of his subjects, infusing his works with a sense of vitality and emotion. His sculptures, whether depicting classical themes or contemporary subjects, reflect a deep understanding of artistic traditions and the craftsmanship of the time.

Family played a crucial role in Yan Dehui’s journey; he married a French woman and started a family. However, a move to the countryside in the 1950s marked a new chapter in his life, cutting him off from the Parisian artistic circle. He continued to exhibit occasionally, create commissioned busts, and return to boxwood sculpture.

Yan Dehui’s journey to Europe was not just a geographical move but a profound personal and professional transformation. Transcending cultural and artistic boundaries, he established himself as a demanding artist whose works are garnering renewed interest in the early 21st century, both in France and China. A unique artist in the art world, Yan Dehui leaves behind a legacy of beauty, innovation, and timeless appeal, restoring figurative art to its former glory. His work serves as a bridge between cultures, a symbol of artistic excellence, and an inspiration for future generations. His story celebrates the human spirit’s ability to grow, adapt, and create, nurtured by the love and support of family and friends. His legacy testifies to the power of artistic exploration and the lasting impact of intercultural exchanges.