“Chairman Mao’s Representative Visits the People in the Taihang Old Base Area” is a notable New Year painting by Li Qun from 1951. It portrays the strong bond between the Communist Party of China and the people, receiving acclaim for its lifelike characters and vibrant colors. Inspired by Li Qun’s visit to revolutionary areas in the Taihang Mountains, the painting underwent adjustments suggested by Tao Lujia to enhance the central figure’s stature, resulting in a more compelling portrayal.
Childhood 1912-1930
A village childhood Li Qun’s roots trace back to a quaint mountain village, an enclave characterised by a mere six courtyards and ten households in its nascent years. This hamlet, situated in Lingshi County, Shanxi Province, earned its identity as Hao Jia Zhang. Positioned to the east of Fenhe River,