Chen Jian (1951, Wuxi, Jiangsu Province) joined the People's Liberation Army in 1970. From 1974-1975, he completed his art training at the Central Art Academy. In 1976, he was transferred to the Art Office of the Political Section of the Nanjing Military Region, which he currently heads.

Chen, who specializes in oil painting, received a People's Liberation Army Art prize in 1983 for his impression of the Huai-Hai Battle. He collaborated with Chen Qi, Zhao Guangtao and Wei Chuyu on this painting.