Deng Chuanli

Deng Chuanli was born on October 26, 1951 in Shanghai, with ancestral roots in Chengdu, Sichuan. She grew up in Shanghai’s “Xincun” neighborhood and, influenced by the rich cultural atmosphere of her community — including notable artists Feng Zikai and Chen Xiaocui — gradually developed a love for painting. She studied under the calligrapher Li Tianma and began to work in the fields of painting and calligraphy.

After graduating from the Chinese Department of East China Normal University, Deng joined Xinmin Evening News as an editor. She worked in the features section as a producer and was responsible for columns such as “Ten-Day Talks,” involving coverage of films, TV dramas and dubbed films. She sought guidance from the prominent screenwriter and leading Shanghai editor Ke Ling, continually broadening her horizons and improving her writing. In her journalism work she was also guided by her aunt Deng Jixing, who was one of the founders of Xinmin Newspaper.

In 1996 she undertook a study visit at the China Europe International Business School (CEIBS). Since then she has published numerous articles in journals such as Youth Generation, Today’s Shanghai, and Family Education, covering family education, social observation, and personal growth. In education she emphasizes cultivating children’s autonomy and interests and has been involved in diverse practical explorations.

Deng’s family includes her father Deng Youjin, an economist who took part in the “February 9” movement; her mother (or listed family member) Deng Jixing, a female newspaperman and founder of Xinmin Newspaper; her husband Huang Ziqiang, a professor at Shanghai Second Polytechnic University; her daughter Huang Shengyi, a well-known actress and singer; and her cousin Wu Jinglian, an important figure in China’s economics community. The family also includes several other members connected with culture and academia.

She values family education and advocates letting children develop independently. When Huang Shengyi was young she studied piano, painting and dance; Deng communicated with her daughter on an equal and candid basis. In her interactions with her grandchildren she favors learning through play to promote their well-rounded development. She actively encourages younger generations and pays attention to the growth of young writers.

Deng loves painting and calligraphy and has produced numerous works. Representative publications include books co-authored with her daughter Huang Shengyi, Years Worth Singing and Good Times on Earth, the latter of which was published in 2023. She has appeared on various cultural programs discussing topics such as traditional Chinese painting and calligraphy. Her writing is plain and delicate, frequently published in professional journals, and spans essays, education, and art.

In 2021 she co-authored a book with her daughter, sharing family and growth stories, and took part in reality shows that strengthened family relationships. In 2023 she spoke about the origins of Chinese painting on cultural programs and held a new book launch, continuing to exert influence in cultural circles. Her work and life reflect a strong emphasis on art, education, and family values.