Painter traces Central Axis through shifting light and moods

Stretching nearly 8 kilometers from north to south, Beijing's Central Axis forms a remarkable heritage corridor of imperial palaces and gardens, altars, temples, city gates, bridges, plazas and historic roadways, linking the capital's past with its present. More than a physical spine, it embodies the principles of harmony, ritual and order that shaped the historic city and Chinese civilization, while illustrating how those ideals remain woven into modern urban life.

The enduring significance of the Axis inspired ink artist Yang Liuyi to create Grand Vistas of the Central Axis Shining Over the Capital, a 100-meter-long scroll in the classical Chinese tradition. The panoramic work leads viewers past landmark buildings, waterways, roads, gate towers, imperial palaces and contemporary public spaces along the Axis. At the same time, it unfolds as a journey through Chinese civilization, revealing the history, cultural traditions and urban vision embedded in these architectural landmarks.

The monumental scroll is now on display at the gallery of the China Federation of Literary and Art Circles in Beijing, where Yang has lived for decades. It anchors an exhibition of his paintings depicting both the capital's historic scenery and contemporary cityscape. Running through Aug 8, the exhibition marks the second anniversary of the Beijing Central Axis' inscription on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Yang's expressive brushwork sets the solemn silhouettes of historic architecture against constantly shifting skies and atmospheric light. As viewers move along the scroll, they are enveloped in a Zen-like calm around the Bell and Drum Towers, before encountering scenes that convey quiet strength, imperial grandeur and moments of gentle serenity. These changing moods lend the familiar landmarks a fresh emotional rhythm.

Since 2023, Yang has presented annual exhibitions of his Beijing landscape series. He describes the capital as "a city imbued with the spirit of mountains and rivers", and believes the Central Axis — a man-made urban spine — possesses that same vitality through its alternating openness and enclosure, rhythmic progression and artistic energy. In his view, the Axis stands as a symbol of the national spirit, expressing the ideals of moderation, integrity, perseverance and resilience.