Liao Xinxue's inspiring journey comes alive on stage for children

In 1932, Liao Xinxue was awarded a prestigious government scholarship to study at the renowned Ecole Nationale Superieure des Beaux-Arts in Paris, a triumph overshadowed by the untold toils and hardships he endured to reach this pinnacle.

Originating from a remote county in Yunnan province, Liao faced the loss of his parents at age 8, shouldering the responsibility of caring for his blind younger brother by herding cows for others. His path led him to Kunming, where he secured a position at a photography shop, nurturing his painting skills and garnering acclaim through exhibitions and accolades.

Liao's tenacity persisted in Paris, where he navigated financial constraints while diligently pursuing his studies, ultimately emerging as a promising sculptor. Upon his return to Kunming in 1948, he devoted himself to the advancement of art and education until his passing in 1958, his legendary life story largely unknown beyond his home province.

This anonymity is set to change as a collective of artists, educators, and theater performers unite to bring Liao's extraordinary journey to the stage during the summer break. Titled Painting Changes His Life, the play eloquently portrays how Liao reshaped his destiny through art and hard work, highlighting the transformative power of art and education in changing lives.

Yu Ding, a professor at the Central Academy of Fine Arts and the play's chief scriptwriter, emphasizes that the production is designed to resonate with children, both as performers and audience members, offering a multifaceted exploration of various art forms including painting, sculpture, dance, music, singing, and stagecraft.