Ningbo art lovers celebrate National Day

Over 40 residents in Ningbo spent 15 months completing a 12-meter farmer painting to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China. [Photo/Ningbo Daily]

Taking 15 months to complete and stretching an impressive 12 meters in length, a remarkable artistic endeavor came to fruition on Sept 28, uniting the hearts and talents of over 40 residents in Xiepu town, Ningbo.

Farmer paintings are hand-painted with gouache watercolors on paper. Their vibrant colors, thick lines and exaggerated figurative patterns enable Chinese farmers to depict rural life and express themselves through art. This masterpiece created in Ningbo celebrated not just the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China but also the rich tapestry of rural life and culture.

The painting, dominated by a serene "ocean blue", exudes a vibrant energy and a sense of fulfillment, capturing both the bustling scenes of fishermen setting sail and farmers celebrating bountiful harvests. Intertwined within the vivid imagery are iconic landmarks of Ningbo, such as the Drum Tower, blending Xiepu's rich local culture, rural vitalization, and the city's rapid urban transformation.

"Seeing my vision materialize into this breathtaking scroll creates an indescribable feeling," said Hu Hanjun, one of the participants. "We embarked on this journey last June with over 40 contributors, ranging from preschoolers to octogenarians. The painting is a chronicle of our rural bliss and an outpouring of love for our hometown and motherland."

According to Dai Yuyu, deputy director of the Xiepu Cultural Station, Xiepu boasts over 150 farmer painting enthusiasts.