He attained great success as a professional painter but lived very simply, almost as a hermit.
[3] He began his study of painting by emulating the leading court painter, Wang E, but quickly turned from the academy to other models and masters.
[3] His courtesy name was Tianchi (天馳) and his pseudonym was Pingshan (平山).
He painted landscapes and human figures in a free and uninhibited style.
According to many legends he also contributed to major religions that are still present in modern day China.