China calling

Though Li is based in Los Angeles, he returns to China at least once a year for inspiration. He surprised fans of his artwork at the Xinjiang Contemporary Art Biennial in September when he made an unannounced visit to his exhibition. Visitors crowded around him as he led them on a whirlwind tour of his paintings, explaining the importance of love and humanity as a theme in all of his artwork. As Li stood in front of his portrayals of Uygurs in Xinjiang, he said, "I want to talk about human nature and love, which are most important. In Xinjiang, there are many conflicts, and what we need most is love."

Li also showed that he was a true man of the people, as he patiently posed for photos with fans, signed autographs and energetically answered people's questions. Liu Qiyi, a retired military officer from Urumqi, was visiting the exhibition for the third time, and was overjoyed to meet Li. "You can really tell how he feels from his paintings," said Liu. "I'm originally from Shaoyang, and it's inspiring to see how Li worked so hard and got everything on his own. Anyone from Hunan has a spirit to work hard and get a better life."

Giving back

Despite living in the United States it is clear that China is Li's home. When Sichuan Province was hit with a deadly earthquake in 2008, Li acted quickly, painting several pieces of children in the area. One large painting showed injured children with President Hu Jintao in a Sichuan village. Li sold two of these pieces for 1.38 million yuan ($219,047), and donated all of the proceeds to charity.

Li's paintings of children in Sichuan show beauty in devastation. Though these children have nothing, their eyes and faces still embody the humanity and love Li cares about so deeply. One of the most haunting portraits is that of a young ballerina who lost her leg during the earthquake. Still, in the faces of these children, viewers see hopeful survivors.

Though his paintings can at times seem redundant and somewhat schmaltzy, Li's message is always consistent. His paintings will continue to be exhibited around the world, and he hopes to spread his message of humanity and love to viewers everywhere. "My oil paintings are my language to the world," said Li. "I express everything through them."