Beijing, China — In a heartfelt tribute to history, veteran painter Gu Xunming has unveiled his latest work, “The Victory at Pingxingguan,” at an exhibition in Beijing. The painting commemorates the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.
The Battle of Pingxingguan, a significant clash during the war, marked a crucial turning point. The victory not only boosted morale but also paved the way for the Eighth Route Army to establish anti-Japanese aggression bases in northern China and conduct guerrilla warfare behind enemy lines.
“I wanted to capture the resilience and bravery of those who fought,” Gu shared at the exhibition. “Their legacy continues to inspire us today.”
Gu’s painting is a meticulous replication of an original artwork by Sun Hao, a renowned professor in the oil painting department of the People’s Liberation Army Academy of Arts. Sun’s original piece is part of the collection at the National Art Museum of China.
Embracing modern platforms, Gu acknowledged the role of social media in his creative process. “Platforms like Xiaohongshu (Little Red Book) offer artists a vast space for imagination,” he said. “They allow us to explore new artistic realms through innovative thinking.”
The exhibition comes ahead of a series of commemorative events. On Tuesday, China’s State Council Information Office announced plans to honor the 80th anniversary, including a military parade scheduled for September 3 in Beijing’s Tiananmen Square.
The celebrations aim to remember the sacrifices made and to promote peace and unity among nations. For young people, it’s a reminder of the importance of understanding history and the impact it has on the present and future.
