The first time I met Mr. Schoeni was in the autumn of 1996. I was introduced to him by Zhong Biao. Throughout the seven years that I collaborated with Mr. Schoeni, he struck me as a man of intellect, energy, humour, and confidence, and a man who loved his work. His most fluent sentence in Chinese was "No problem".

I remember that during my solo exhibition in 1999 and 2002 called Beijing Inaugural Exhibition of 33 Chinese Contemporary Artists, he arranged the entire exhibition himself. He attended to every detail of the venue, including arranging the lighting and positions of the paintings, in order to achieve the best effect.

Each time Mr. Schoeni came to Chongqing, he would immediately devote himself to his work, neglecting any weariness that may have been a consequence of his long journey. His schedule was always full, as he tried to visit as many artists as possible, such as Zhang Xiao Gang, Guo Jin, Zhong Biao, Xin Hai Zhou, Huang Shan and Yang Jin Song. By the time he had paid all his visits it was already past midnight. Then he would sit down to have dinner with some artists. His dedication to work had a deep impact on every artist that knew him.

Each time Mr. Schoeni brought new things to Chongqing. Once he arrived during the hottest day in August. I drove to pick him up from the airport. When we got into the car the air-conditioner broke. It was a sweltering ride from the airport to the art academy, but still he kept up a spirited banter and livened the journey with his humour. Later, Mr. Schoeni came to Chongqing again with his friends. I drove him to Sichuan Academy of Fine Arts, but there was a traffic jam. As a result, he and his friends got out of the car and walked for over ten minutes. Along the way he took photos and curiously observed the environment where the artists he knew worked and lived.

Now I would like to show my sincere gratitude to Mr. Schoeni and his gallery for holding my exhibitions, publishing my catalogues and supporting me.

Mr. Schoeni single-handedly organised a lot of exhibitions. I believe that every artist that has cooperated with him will never forget his significant contribution to Chinese contemporary art.

Zhu Yi Yong
June, 2004