Catch the appeal of an evergreen artist

It has been more than three decades since the death of Zhang Da-qian (Chang Dai-chien, 1899-1983), but interest in his work has intensified, with auction prices of his masterpieces skyrocketing in recent years.

Some 6,000 viewers showed up at a two-day preview before the official opening of a Zhang Daqian art exhibition on Jan 22 at the National Art Museum of China - evidence of the artist's infinite appeal.

Titled Vast Mountains and Rivers, the exhibition celebrates the master's legendary life and his creativity in exposing Chinese painting to the international scene.