His years in Russia profoundly reshaped his artistic philosophy, particularly the Western emphasis on perspective and structure. "A good sculpture should feel complete from every angle."
After returning to China, Sun continued to visit his teachers in Russia until they both passed away. He describes the long learning process as a gradual transmission of techniques, with each visit and each lesson contributing to his mastery.
Among Sun's own horse-related works on display is The Strategist Sun Bin. As he puts it, the piece "applies Russian methods while adding Chinese romanticism". The sculpture depicts Warring States Period (475-221 BC) military strategist Sun Bin, who, despite his injuries, rides in a chariot through the clouds.
The work blends sharp lines and geometric forms with traditional Chinese "auspicious cloud" patterns, merging Eastern and Western aesthetics.
