Born in Changshu, Jiangsu province in 1948, Yan was a student of famed calligraphers Sha Manweng and Song Wenzhi, whose instruction helped him master a number of styles including cursive hand and seal cutting.

He also has a good command of painting.

His works were displayed at the National Calligraphy and Seal Cutting Exhibition from its second to ninth sessions as well as at numerous other national exhibitions and international shows, where many times his work was awarded first prize.

He is one of the nation's first-class artists and experts who receive a special subsidy from the State Council.

Yan's works are collected by enthusiasts in Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Brazil, Canada, the United States, France and the Philippines, as well as aficionados in China's Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan regions.

More than 100 mainland museums and galleries, including the National Art Museum of China and the Great Hall of the People, have displayed his creations.

He is a member of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultation Conference (CPPCC), vice-president of China Calligraphers Association, vice-president of Jiangsu Federation of Literary and Art Circles and Jiangsu Calligraphers Association. He is also a professor of Nanjing University and Southeast University.

As a member of the Standing Committee of the CPPCC, Yan proposed new regulations to encourage charity in the nation.