Jiang's works use ordinary objects such as leftover tea leaves. [Photo provided to China Daily]

For instance, he paints and practices calligraphy, not as a showcase of performing for others but as a way to cultivate himself.

Jiang experienced a wave of admiration of Western art after it was introduced to China in the 1980s. But in the early 1990s, many artists realized the imitation would offer them no future, and explored new styles of art by returning to Chinese cultural and philosophical roots.

Some like him turned to traditional mediums and techniques, but looked for innovative ways to express themselves.

He also tried installation, video art, outdoor art and performance art, by which he broadened his vision and came to realize that any medium can create quality art as long as one doesn't repeat himself or become captive as a hostage of the market.

His studies of ancient Chinese philosophers such as Laozi and Zhuangzi have also allowed him to abandon prejudices and stereotypical ideas.