Press "PandaGuides" above to follow us!
In 2014, 53-year-old Chinese painter Yang Yan captured headlines when he married Ida, a 24-year-old woman from Sierra Leone. The unusual pairing - spanning cultural divides and a 29-year age gap - sparked heated discussions online. Ten years later, their story took an unexpected turn, leaving many questioning the nature of love, devotion, and life choices.
Yang Yan, also known by his artistic pseudonym Ben Qi, is celebrated for his mastery in Chinese ink painting, particularly his bold brush strokes and grand landscapes. Born in Qinghai Province in 1958, Yang studied under prestigious mentors and achieved significant acclaim in his field. Known as the “modern-day Zhang Daqian,” his works have been praised for blending tradition with innovation.
Despite his artistic triumphs, Yang remained single for much of his life, holding out for a soulmate who matched him emotionally and intellectually. His revelation about his ideal partner came in an unexpected way - through a sculpture of an African woman he saw at a friend's house. The intricacy of the figure captivated him, and he realized this was the image of his "Venus."
Determined to find his muse, Yang traveled to Sierra Leone. There, he met Ida, a university student who was knowledgeable about Chinese culture. Captivated by her charm, beauty, and intellect, Yang fell deeply in love. Despite criticism over their age difference and cultural dissimilarities, the couple tied the knot in a grand ceremony in Beijing, spending 50 million RMB on the lavish event, which was attended by over 50,000 guests.
Ida faced numerous challenges adapting to life in China. From language barriers to different culinary tastes, integrating into a new culture was no easy feat. However, with Yang’s support, she gradually embraced her new environment, even learning Chinese and participating in his art studio. Their relationship grew stronger as they worked together, with Ida even holding her own art exhibitions.
The couple's story became a media sensation. Once criticized for their unconventional romance, they eventually won public admiration for their commitment. Their union was even featured on Chinese television, showcasing their family life alongside their young son.
While their life seemed picture-perfect, Yang’s spiritual journey took him in an unexpected direction. In a shocking decision, he announced plans to leave his family and enter monastic life. Friends and fans were baffled. Why would someone abandon a flourishing career and a loving family?
Yang explained his choice simply: “To seek greater wisdom.” The announcement sparked a wave of speculation, with some suggesting he had grown weary of worldly pursuits, while others believed he sought refuge from societal pressures.
True to his word, Yang became a monk, taking the name Shi Dajue. He retreated into a life of simplicity, dedicating his days to meditation, religious study, and minimalistic art. The move marked the end of his public life as a painter and family man.
Yang’s decision had a profound impact on Ida and their son. The once vibrant household became quiet, and Ida returned to her home country with their child. Public sentiment was divided - some admired Yang’s resolve to follow his spiritual path, while others criticized him for abandoning his responsibilities.
“He pursued his dream, but at what cost? His family deserved better,” one user commented.
“True wisdom comes from balancing obligations and inner peace. He failed his family,” another wrote.
“Sometimes, the pursuit of art and spirituality requires great sacrifices. Yang chose a path few can understand,” a supporter argued.
38-year-old woman’s marriage requirements stir debate online
Chinese woman chooses African partner, left broke after cancer
Chinese man shares photos with German girlfriend, gets bullied
Foreign woman fined for dating on tourist visa in China
Chinese man marries African girl 12 years his junior for ¥9,000
My friend chose to end her life in Zurich on October 24, 2024
