The wall painting of Ne Zha in Lingtai county's sports park. [Photo/Gansu Daily]

This early winter, the streets and parks of Lingtai county in Pingliang, Gansu province, have been quietly adorned with vibrant murals. Young artist Cao Hongchao has turned blank walls into artistic canvases — from the lively figure of Ne Zha in public parks to nostalgic street scenes in cultural blocks, and landscape and folk art in rural areas — breathing new life into this ancient county through his brush.

Cao Hongchao, an artist from Lingtai county, paints daily. [Photo/Gansu Daily]

The 31-year-old artist has pursued painting for over a decade, driven by a long-held desire to document and beautify his hometown through art. "Every time I pick up a brush, I want to capture the green mountains, clear waters, and daily life of my hometown," said Cao. 

At the county's sports park, Cao tapped into the popularity of the domestic animated film Ne Zha, spending several weekends carefully sketching and coloring until the brave and lively figure emerged on the wall — now a popular photo spot for residents. 

As both witness to and participant in his hometown's development, Cao has kept pace with Lingtai's transformation through his art. From beautiful villages to urban cultural districts, from lush mountains to lively streets, every change and achievement in his hometown has become a source of inspiration. His works not only enhance the urban and rural environment but also vividly depict Lingtai's evolving story, earning widespread praise from locals.