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Liu Yiqian&#;s journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of China&#;s most prominent art collectors is a testament to his tenacity, vision, and passion for Chinese heritage. Born in in Shanghai, Liu&#;s early life was far removed from the world of high art. He started his career as a taxi driver, a far cry from the opulent lifestyle he leads today.

Yet, it was this very beginning that laid the groundwork for his incredible ascent in the business and art world.

Early Business Ventures

Liu Yiqian&#;s transition from taxi driving to high finance is a remarkable story of entrepreneurial spirit.

Liu yi qian biography Liu Yiqian (Chinese: 刘益谦; pinyin: Liú Yìqiān, pronounced [ljǒʊ îtɕʰjɛ́n], born ) is a Chinese billionaire investor and art collector. An autodidact who formerly worked as a taxi driver, he has built his fortune since the mids by investing in stock trading, real estate [2] and pharmaceuticals. [1].

Despite not having attended college, Liu capitalized on the economic reforms sweeping China in the s and s. He ventured into various businesses, including pharmaceuticals, real estate, and securities. His keen business acumen and willingness to take risks paid off, allowing him to amass substantial wealth.

By , Forbes estimated his net worth at around $ billion, positioning him among China&#;s wealthiest individuals.

Passion for Art

Liu&#;s entry into the art world was driven by a profound appreciation for Chinese culture and history. Unlike many collectors who focus on specific eras or types of art, Liu&#;s collection is eclectic, spanning centuries and styles.

He has acquired Song dynasty paintings, Qing dynasty porcelain, Cultural Revolution artifacts, and contemporary works by artists like Fang Lijun.

Liu yi qian biography wikipedia From the younger generation of super-rich, Liu Yiqian is China's biggest art collector. Chinese media have dubbed him "the eccentric Mr Liu" because he wears T-shirts to work and shaves.

&#;I don&#;t have a specialization,&#; Liu remarked in an interview. &#;As long as it&#;s Chinese, I&#;ll collect it.&#;

The Power of Auction Houses

The burgeoning wealth of China’s new elite has transformed the global art market, with Chinese buyers often setting new records at auctions.

Liu Yiqian is no stranger to this phenomenon. His purchases have not only made headlines but also highlighted the increasing influence of Chinese collectors. In , for instance, a Ming dynasty vase sold for a staggering $ million at an auction in Macau, showcasing the fevered bidding wars that have come to characterize the market.

Building a Legacy: The Long Museum

Liu Yiqian’s passion for art is not just about personal gratification; it is also about sharing his love for Chinese heritage with the public.

Life drawing Liu Yiqian is the chairman of Sunline Group, whose interests include chemicals, pharmaceuticals and financial services. He owns a stake in Shenzhen-listed Hubei Biocause Pharmaceutical.

To this end, he and his wife, Wang Wei, established the Long Museum in Shanghai. The first of its kind, this ,square-foot space opened to the public with a mission to educate and inspire. The admission fee is $9, making it accessible to a broad audience. The museum houses a vast array of Chinese art, from ancient artifacts to modern masterpieces, reflecting Liu&#;s diverse tastes.

The Long Museum is more than just a repository of art; it is a cultural institution that aims to foster a deeper appreciation of Chinese art among new generations.

Liu plans to open a second museum, further cementing his commitment to cultural preservation and education.

A Lasting Impact

Liu Yiqian&#;s story is one of transformation and vision. From a taxi driver to a billionaire art collector, his journey is a testament to the possibilities that arise from passion, determination, and strategic risk-taking.

His influence extends beyond his personal collection; through the Long Museum, Liu is creating a lasting legacy that celebrates Chinese art and culture.

As China’s art market continues to grow, driven by wealthy collectors like Liu, the global landscape is also changing.

Liu yi qian biography wife

Liu Yiqian (Chinese: 刘益谦; pinyin: Liú Yìqiān, pronounced [ljǒʊ îtɕʰjɛ́n], born ) is a Chinese billionaire investor and art collector. An autodidact who formerly worked as a taxi driver, he has built his fortune since the mids by investing in stock trading, real estate [2] and pharmaceuticals. [1].

The rise of Chinese art collectors has not only inflated auction prices but also shifted the focus towards Chinese cultural heritage. Liu Yiqian stands at the forefront of this movement, embodying the spirit of modern Chinese patronage and leaving an indelible mark on the art world.