THE Guangzhou Museum of Art has opened a landmark exhibition to honor a celebrated Chinese painter and art educator. The “Eternal Light — The 95th Anniversary of Yang Zhiguang’s Birth” commemorates Yang’s extraordinary contributions to modern Chinese art through more than 200 selected works and archival materials.

Fusing Western realism with Chinese expressive techniques, Yang forged a distinctive visual language that deeply influenced modern Chinese figure painting. He became known as one of the pioneers of New China’s figure painting and was awarded the nation’s highest artistic honor, the China Art Award for Lifetime Achievement.

The exhibition takes “light” as its spiritual core and narrative thread. It unfolds across four sections to trace Yang’s artistic journey spanning more than seven decades.

“Light of Enlightenment” revisits his early training in Shanghai and Guangdong, as well as his formative years at the Central Academy of Fine Arts, through rare sketches, student works, and historical photographs.

“Light of the Times” reflects his realist commitment to portraying the lives of workers, peasants, and historical figures in New China, underscoring the close ties between art and society.

“Light of Diversity” showcases his exploration beyond figure painting, including flower-and-bird, landscape, and dance-themed works such as “Roses and Cat,” “Highland Pasture,” and “Swan Lake.”

“Light of Aesthetic Education” emphasizes his achievements as an art educator, displaying teaching manuscripts, textbook drafts, step-by-step sketches, and rare materials documenting his pioneering “Four Sketches” system — life drawing, quick sketching, memory sketching, and copying.

The exhibition integrates Yang’s artistic achievements with his lifelong commitment to art education, presenting what curators describe as a “dual-track narrative.” Archival materials and classroom examples illustrate his dedication to nurturing generations of young artists and advancing aesthetic education in China.

Dates: Until Nov. 22

Venue: Guangdong Museum of Art (Bai’etan), Liwan District, Guangzhou (广州艺术博物院/广州美术馆新馆)

Metro: Line 3 or APM Line to Canton Tower Station (广州塔站), Exit B (Windy Shao)