A piece from a series by Li Geng, named Mahler Symphony－Ink Space.[Photo provided to China Daily]

Tang says: "I'm an amateur artist. I paint and do calligraphy as a hobby since my retirement.

"I would have been a street artist if not for Li's trust, support... and the great platform he gave me for creation."

Li Keran was one of the most important Chinese artists of the 20th century. His son was born in 1950. Li Geng started to learn painting as a child from his father and other contemporary masters. He has grown into an international award-winning artist, recognized for his combination of Chinese aesthetics with Western creative methods.

"Li Geng's paintings are one of the contemporary paradigms of communication between China and the West," says Xie Xiaodong, curator of the exhibition.

"He is a scholarly artist with both traditional accomplishments and an international perspective. His ink paintings are diverse and full of charm. For many years, he has been striving to develop the intercultural dialogue of ink painting and portray the contemporary transformation of China."

On exhibition at Long Museum in Shanghai hosts a series by Li Geng named Mahler Symphony-Ink Space.