As the Year of the Horse draws near, artists across China are bringing the beloved zodiac symbol to life through time-honored crafts and contemporary expression, offering a vivid tribute to the courage, hope and heritage that the animal represents.
Since China Global Television Network (CGTN) launched its "All Things Horses" challenge, creative entries have been flowing in from home and aboard, transforming the horse from a simple zodiac sign into a universal emblem of strength, progress, and human imagination.
In Luoyang, central China's Henan Province, the ancient art of Sancai, or tri-colored glazed pottery, is galloping into the new year. Under the skilled hands of Guo Aihe, director of the Luoyang Sancai Art Museum, a ceramic horse took shape stroke by stroke on a plate, its flowing glaze conjuring the image of a steed striding through clouds and mountains.
His colleague, deputy director Guo Jiaqi, demonstrated how a vibrant red-glazed Sancai horse comes to life through meticulous craftsmanship.
Elsewhere, painter Zhu Changqi captured the equine spirit with expressive ink wash paintings. Through fluid, layered brushstrokes, he conveyed both the grace and the restless energy of these animals, inviting viewers to feel their galloping soul.
In the blessings associated with the Year of the Horse, the phrase "taking the lead" represents not just speed and precedence, but also the courage to innovate and forge ahead in changing times.
Artist Zhang Yang has been devoted to painting horses since his youth. Through frequent sketching trips to Inner Mongolia, Xinjiang and other regions, Zhang has created a vast collection of horse-themed artworks.
His painting "Taking the Lead" features a powerful black horse galloping freely across the grasslands, leading a herd toward their shared destination. This piece not only embodies the strength and speed of the horse but also serves as a metaphor for those who boldly forge ahead and drive progress forward.
CGTN's "All Things Horses" challenge sparks wave of creativity among Chinese artists
