Li Qun’s 1939 woodcut captures the hardship and resilience of farmers facing the challenges of adverse weather. A shirtless farmer rushes in a storm, clutching his hat against the rain, symbolising the harsh realities of agricultural life. In the background, a woman hurries with a basket, emphasising the shared struggle among farmers. The attention to detail, especially in the raindrops, enhances the realism, evoking a sense of immediacy. Overall, the woodcut poignantly documents the perseverance of farmers amidst nature’s unpredictability.
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,