Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the evolution and significance of watercolor painting in China, highlighting its development, challenges, and the establishment of dedicated exhibitions to promote this art form [6][7]. Group 1: Historical Context - The author initially engaged with watercolor materials in a provincial performance unit, using homemade pigments for early works [2]. - Formal education in art began at the Central Academy of Drama, where oil painting was the primary focus until watercolor painting was introduced later in the curriculum [3][4]. - Influential teachers returning from the Soviet Union played a crucial role in integrating watercolor painting into stage design and broader artistic practices in China [4]. Group 2: Artistic Development - The author rediscovered watercolor painting after a long hiatus, appreciating its versatility and ease of use compared to oil painting [5]. - The establishment of the Beijing Watercolor Painting Research Association marked a significant moment for the promotion and organization of watercolor artists in China [6]. Group 3: Current Trends and Future Prospects - The third National Watercolor Painting Exhibition, held after ten years, saw a significant increase in participation, with over 4,000 artists submitting works [7]. - The article emphasizes the growing recognition of watercolor painting's unique qualities and its role in contemporary art, despite challenges such as a lack of distinct thematic expression among artists [7].

Core Insights - The article emphasizes the importance of bridging the disciplines of art history and archaeology, suggesting that recent archaeological discoveries in China provide opportunities to reconstruct the narrative framework of art history [1] - The integration of these fields is not only theoretical but also practical, as various important archaeological sites have become collaborative research bases for multiple disciplines [1] - The article highlights the need for a second bridge that connects academic writing with the promotion and popularization of cultural heritage, advocating for a cross-disciplinary approach to break down professional barriers [2] Summary by Sections Integration of Disciplines - The merging of art history and archaeology is seen as a vibrant academic growth point, with both fields enriching each other through collaborative research [1] - Significant archaeological sites, such as the Yungang Grottoes, have attracted scholars from various disciplines, enhancing the depth of research through diverse perspectives [1] Educational Initiatives - The author conducts field trips to the Yungang Grottoes with students, emphasizing the contributions of past scholars and encouraging students to engage deeply with the artifacts [2] - The article discusses the creation of children's picture books that translate academic concepts into accessible narratives, focusing on the stories of ordinary workers in history [3] Cultural Heritage and Public Engagement - The article notes a growing interest in cultural heritage among the younger generation in China, contrasting it with the challenges faced by Western museums in attracting young audiences [5] - It calls for innovative approaches to cultural heritage that are grounded in academic research, aiming to revitalize artifacts and connect them with modern societal values [5]