Two years ago, Jiuzhaigou was devastated when it was struck by a magnitude 7 earthquake. Many of its scenic spots -- where tourists came by the dozens -- were reduced to ruins overnight. Li Hui, a painter, was eager to capture the desolate beauty of the area on his canvas but kept putting the plan on hold. In mid-July this year, painters from Sichuan were invited to sketch Jiuzhaigou. Li Hui was one of them. Returning to the site after a few years was a poignant moment for Li Hui. "Although there are slight changes, it is still amazing,” said Li Hui about the place. But Li Hui was not satisfied with merely sketching the area, he had grand plans in mind this time.
A hit idea
Li Hui had first sketched Jiuzhaigou decades ago. Back then, he had no idea that he was embarking on a potentially life-changing journey. After his first visit, the scenery of Jiuzhaigou cropped up as a common theme in many of his works. From depicting life in its simplicity in the region to taking creative liberties, Li Hui used a host of artistic techniques to reproduce Jiuzhaigou's charm through his brush.
Taking his admiration of Jiuzhaigou to new heights this year, Li Hui proposed a bold idea to the leaders: a panoramic painting that portrayed the landscape of Jiuzhaigou in its entirety. The idea was appreciated by local leaders who wanted the painting to be exhibited at the prefecture games.
Hard-pressed for time
Li Hui wanted certain things to be part of the painting. "Panda dance which is an intangible cultural heritage, Primitive Ecological Zone of Jiawuchi, pandas, golden monkey and other scenes, needed to appear at the right place." He spent a few days finalizing his ideas and drawing the draft.
Considering the time constraint, Li Hui, Vice President of Chengdu Art Association, decided to mobilize the resources of the association and gather everyone's strength to complete the painting sooner. He invited five artists --Yao Yehong, Qian Lei, Chen Zhicai, Chen Rong and Shu Jiong --who were experts at painting landscape, flowers, birds and animals, to work overtime to finish the painting. With the concerted efforts of many artists, this 2180cm long and 80cm wide painting titled ‘Jiuzhaigou Scenic View’ was finally completed within the prescribed time.
‘Jiuzhaigou Scenic View’ will be exhibited in Jiuzhaigou County on August 18.
