Chen Shuren (1884—1948), original name Shao, alias Zhe, pseudonyms Nianhua Weixiaozi, Jiawai Yuzi, Ershan Shanqiao, and later De’an Laoren, was born in Panyu (present part of Guangzhou) of Guangdong Province. As an outstanding artist in Chinese painting of modern and contemporary China, Chen Shuren was one of the founders of the Lingnan School of Painting which enjoyed the fame in Chinese painting circle during the 20th century.

In his early years, Chen studied painting under the instruction of Ju Lian, and went to Japan twice for further study in fine art. He graduated from the Kyoto Municipal Arts and Crafts School and the Tokyo Rikkyo University respectively, and was deeply influenced by Japanese artists Takeuchi Seihō (1864—1942) and Yamamoto Harukyo (1872—1933). He followed Dr. Sun Yat-sen in revolutionary movements for a long period of time, and he had successively served in important posts in the National Government. Outside of official duties, he was fond of traveling. At one point, he did not engage in political affairs and visited famous scenic spots to do sketching, compose poetry and paint. He subsequently published multiple art collections and poetry collections. His work Lingnan Spring won a top prize at the World’s Exposition in Belgium, gaining him good reputation. He held solo exhibitions in Nanjing, Shanghai and Chongqing.

Chen Shuren advocated artistic innovation, agreed to New Style Chinese Painting and emphasized artistic cultivation. Throughout his life, he sought inspiration for poetry and painting, gave high praise to nature and the people. He always proposed to paint in a poetic style and paid attention to sketching, which does not mean to meticulously depict the subject only, but also to inject feelings and prospects. He was apt at the application of elegant brushstrokes and bright colours, which manifest a sense of nobility, tranquility, and dignified beauty. His paintings are featured with colours, particularly mild colours which give an elegant and pleasing artistic effect. As one of his poems goes: Smile comes naturally all the way along the journey, while gentle breeze accompanies the car throughout the trip”, indicating that his artistic pursuit was a combination of painter and poet. He was fond of life in nature, just as “the Lake Poets”. His works are unique which highlight the infusion of poetry in painting and painting in poetry with exquisite technique and everlasting charm.

In 2024, the Guangzhou Museum of Art organized Smile Comes Naturally All the Way along the Journey: Exhibition in Commemoration of the 140th Birth Anniversary of Chen Shuren. The exhibition was awarded the Outstanding Project of 2024 Exhibition Season of Selected Items in Collection of National Art Museums, presented by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. In order to further promote the artistic spirit of the Lingnan School of Painting, and to bring excellent culture to fruition and benefit more audiences, the Guangzhou Museum of Art and the He Xiangning Art Museum jointly hold a tour exhibition of this project in Shenzhen. In this exhibition, bird-and-flowers, landscapes, figures, calligraphies, collaborative works, poetry, painting albums as well as stationery supplies of the artist are on display, showcasing his unique artistic style, his personal charm and integrity as well as his poetic and picturesque artistic life.