Li Qun created the woodcut “Life of a Soldier” to offer a glimpse into the human side of military life during times of conflict. In the midst of war, soldiers often endure harsh conditions and face immense challenges. By portraying a soldier taking a moment of respite to read, Li Qun humanises the military experience and emphasises the intellectual and personal dimensions of soldiering. This woodcut may serve as a reminder that soldiers, despite their roles in warfare, are individuals with their own thoughts, emotions, and intellectual pursuits. Additionally, “Life of a Soldier” may aim to convey the importance of education, even in the midst of turmoil, as a source of solace and enlightenment for those serving on the frontlines.
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,