Subsequent generations have acknowledged Yen Shui-lung as one of the most multi-talented artists of his time. Yen first studied in Japan and subsequently was educated in France where he was exposed to the influence of the Impressionists and Post-Impressionists. Yen attracted the attention of the art milieu with his drawing talent. However, on his return to his homeland, he chose to immerse himself in education instead, and even organised a school for arts and craft. Together with Pang Xunqin, one of China's first generation oil painters, Yen - who hails from Taiwan - is considered to be one of the key proponents in developing and raising the profile of the commercial arts scene. Yen devoted his time and effort extensively to the development of Taiwanese commercial arts and as a result, he was 74 years old before he got round to having his own solo exhibition of oil paintings again. Yen's works always have an ornamental and decorative feel to them. He favours the use of decorative flowers in his themes. Typically, the flowers are arranged such that they gravitate towards the centre and appear to be bursting into bloom. The flowers radiate a unique brilliance and delicate charm against the juxtaposition of fresh fruits.