Guizhou farmers' paintings go international

Shuicheng farmers' paintings are exhibited at Vancouver Art Gallery in Canada. [Photo provided to China Daily]

Farmers' paintings, originating in the Shuicheng district of Liupanshui city, Southwest China's Guizhou province, have evolved over decades into a comprehensive industry chain. Built on a foundation of rural artists, they now extend to cultural product development and copyright monetization.

Over the past 40 years, Shuicheng has organized nearly 30 training workshops for farmers' paintings, cultivating 1,500 participants who have emerged as distinct creative communities.

In 2005, Shuicheng farmers' paintings debuted on the international art stage when 40 works were exhibited in Paris, earning particular admiration from then-Mayor François Hollande. To date, these artworks have been displayed in over 20 Chinese cities, including Beijing and Shanghai, as well as in countries such as France, Canada, and Japan.

Shuicheng farmers' paintings have evolved from single-piece sales to copyright operations, forging a unique path that balances heritage preservation with innovative development. Currently, 2,076 copyright registrations, 18 patents, and 20 trademarks have been secured for the paintings and their derivatives. In 2024, related industries generated total revenue of 4.13 million yuan ($575,100), including 364,000 yuan from copyright royalties.

During the 2024 Spring Festival, Shuicheng launched its first "Village Paintings" series of events, featuring exhibitions, paper-cutting, and intangible cultural heritage displays. At the 2025 Liupanshui Marathon, organizers integrated elements of farmers' paintings into aid station designs and participant kits, showcasing the charm of "village paintings" throughout the event.

Shuicheng will continue to collaborate with provincial and national rural artists to build the "village paintings" brand.