A local painter, Jin Lei, 58, has opened a themed studio in Shagou town, Xinghua, Jiangsu province, where he exhibits more than 100 ink-wash cartoons that capture the town's landscapes and folk customs.
Jin Lei introduces his depictions of Shagou town to visitors at his studio. [Photo by Song Yan to etaizhou.gov.cn]
Influenced by comic newspapers and a local cartoonist from a young age, Jin published his first work in 1989 and has since created more than 1,000 works. In recent years, he has focused on his hometown, developing a concise yet vivid style that blends traditional ink-wash with modern sensibilities.
His ink-wash scenes include landmarks such as Jiangjia Lane, Shiliang Bridge and Jinshi Archway.
Jin Lei's ink-wash painting, A Midnight Bride. [Photo by Song Yan to etaizhou.gov.cn]
Folk themes bring his paintings to life. One example is A Midnight Bride, which shows a red sedan chair and moonlit lanes. The Shagou Lantern Festival, featuring over 100 lantern sets, is not a regular event. This has prompted Jin to paint more than 20 scenes from it.
In addition, he has turned local legends of filial devotion and moral integrity into engaging comic narratives.
More than 100 of his works hang in local restaurants, and the studio is also free to visitors. Jin hopes to take the collection on the road, using his art to introduce Shagou town to a wider audience.