Li Keran first studied landscape painting at the age of thirteen under the tutelage of Qian Shizhi and later at the Shanghai College of Fine Arts. After graduation, he enrolled at the National Art College in Hangzhou, where he studied oil painting as a research student. Much later in life, he studied traditional painting theories and techniques with the renowned masters Qi Baishi and Huang Binhong; his firm grasp of theories and techniques laid the foundation for the many stunningly compositions that have enriched Chinese Painting. As he painted and travelled, his works began to evolve into a style which is distinctly his own. Li is particularly noted for his painting of landscapes, figures and especially buffaloes.
Li Keran was also involved in art education. He served variously as Professor of Fine Arts at the Xuzhou Art College, Chongqing Art College and the Central Academy of Fine Arts. He was also the vice chairman of the Chinese Artists' Association. Li's works have been exhibited many times both at home and abroad, where they were widely acclaimed.