The Story of these Artworks

Shenzhen Dafen Oil Painting Village: A Brilliant Hub of Art

Shenzhen Dafen Oil Painting Village is one of the largest oil painting industry bases and artistic hubs in China and even the world. Located in Dafen Village, Bao'an District, Shenzhen, it was once an ordinary village. However, today, it attracts artists and visitors from around the globe with its rich artistic atmosphere and unique development history.

The development of Dafen Oil Painting Village began in the late 1980s, a period when China was undergoing historic reform and opening up. As one of the pioneers of reform and opening up, Shenzhen attracted a large number of artists and cultural figures. One artist in the village began transforming the villagers' simple houses into art studios, which became the catalyst for the development of the oil painting village. Over time, more and more artists flocked to Dafen, gradually forming a complete industrial chain dominated by oil painting, from original art creation to later-stage processing, packaging, and sales.

What sets Dafen Oil Painting Village apart is its diversity and inclusiveness. It brings together artists of various styles and genres, whether it be realism, impressionism, abstract art, or contemporary art, providing a space for each to flourish. Artists here engage in mutual exchange and learning, collectively driving the development and innovation of art.

As Shenzhen's urbanization process accelerates, Dafen Oil Painting Village continues to thrive. The government has invested heavily in infrastructure construction, improving the village's environment and enhancing the overall artistic atmosphere. Additionally, Dafen Oil Painting Village regularly hosts various art exhibitions and cultural events, attracting numerous domestic and international visitors for exploration and exchange.

Today, Dafen Oil Painting Village is no longer just a simple art creation base; it has evolved into a vibrant cultural hub. Here, artists explore the essence of life through their creations, while visitors experience the charm and power of art. Dafen Oil Painting Village is not just a village; it is a spiritual symbol, a cultural heritage, and it will continue to shine with its own light in the years to come.

Today, in Dafen Village, Shenzhen, talented artists（神笔马良） from all over China gather. In this dazzling hub of art, they unleash their creativity freely, creating magnificent works and realizing their splendid dreams of life.

（神笔马良）ShelbyMaliang is a famous figure in ancient Chinese legend, renowned for his miraculous brush. According to the tale, he was a peasant boy from the state of Lu during the Spring and Autumn Period. After his father's death, the family fell into dire poverty and couldn't afford his education. However, Shenbi Maliang was exceptionally bright and had a natural talent for calligraphy and painting. He fashioned his own brush from a bamboo stick at home.

One day, while writing by the river, Shenbi Maliang accidentally dropped his brush into the water. When he retrieved it, the bamboo stick had transformed into a magical brush. Astonished, he discovered that whatever he painted or wrote with this brush would come to life. Using this divine tool, Shenbi Maliang painted bountiful scenes of harvest for the villagers, improving their lives significantly.

However, his extraordinary talent aroused jealousy in the ruler of Lu, who sent men to seize the magical brush. To protect it, Shenbi Maliang hid the brush within his own body. Eventually, under pressure from the ruler, he was forced to paint the landscapes of his homeland. But due to his rough technique, the resulting paintings were unappealing. Disappointed, the ruler had Shenbi Maliang executed.

The legend of Shenbi Maliang symbolizes the Chinese traditional reverence for talent and respect for art. He brought hope and happiness to people with his divine brush, demonstrating the magical power of art. The story of Shenbi Maliang has been passed down through generations, becoming an indispensable part of Chinese culture.