A Path to Glory: Ren Zhe Brings Jin Yong's Universe to Jakarta

tinemu.com - 2 October 2025

Ren Zhe Sculpture at Townhall, IDD, PIK 2

TINEMU.COM, Jakarta - The world of contemporary Indonesian art is about to be treated to something special. An exhibition titled "A Path To Glory" will be held at Townhall IDD PIK 2, Jakarta, from October 3 to 19, 2025. Organized by Linda Gallery, this exhibition is part of the 100th anniversary of the birth of Jin Yong, a Hong Kong-based wuxia literary maestro whose works have become legendary across generations.

"The theme of A Path To Glory is not just a slogan, but a deep reflection of how sculpture can resonate with literature," said Linda MA, Owner of Linda Gallery.

From Literature to Sculpture: Tracing the Path of Warriors

Jin Yong's Eagle Warrior trilogy—The Legend of the Condor Heroes, The Return of the Condor Heroes, and The Heaven Sword and Dragon Saber—is more than just a story of sword duels. It is an inner journey of moral and spiritual glory.

This essence is captured by sculptor Ren Zhe, who presents heroic figures not only in physical strength, but also in their radiance of humanity. Through monumental sculptures, visitors can feel the courage of Guo Jing, the gentleness of Xiaolongnü, and the moral dilemmas of Zhang Wuji.

"This exhibition is a spiritual journey. Ren Zhe is not literally copying Jin Yong's characters, but bringing their spirit to life in contemporary language," added Linda MA.

Jin Yong: A Legend Alive in the Collective Imagination

Jin Yong, or Louis Cha (1924–2018), is the greatest wuxia author in the history of modern Chinese literature. With 15 martial arts novels that have sold hundreds of millions of copies, been translated into various languages, and adapted into more than 130 films and television series, his work has shaped the imagination of generations.

In China, almost everyone is familiar with Jin Yong's stories. A survey even found that 80–90% of Chinese people have read or watched adaptations of his work. This year, the centenary of his birth is being celebrated on a grand scale in China, including in Haining, his hometown. In Indonesia, this spirit is echoed through the medium of contemporary art in the works of Ren Zhe.

Ren Zhe: A Young Sculptor with an Immortal Soul

Ren Zhe (born in China, 1983) is one of the most prominent sculptors of his generation. A graduate of the Academy of Fine Arts at Tsinghua University, Beijing, he is known for his ability to combine traditional Eastern aesthetics with contemporary global sensibilities.

In his work, he uses modern materials to bring classic values to life: courage, generosity, respect, and honesty—core values in Confucian philosophy. His sculptures are not merely static objects, but figures pulsing with energy, presenting a dynamic that seems to move through space and time.

His international track record includes solo exhibitions:

A Path to Glory - Jin Yong’s Centennial Memorial (Hong Kong, 2024)

GANG – The Awakened Warrior (Linda Gallery, Singapore, 2023)

Qi (Beijing, 2019), and various exhibitions in Hong Kong, Taiwan, Shanghai, and Singapore.

Among the honors he has received are the Excellence Award at the Liu Kaiqu International Sculpture Exhibition (2011) and Esquire 80th Anniversary Classic Fashion Pioneer (2013). He also became the Youth Culture Promotion Ambassador for the “UPanda-Art World Tour” (2019).