Core Viewpoint - The exhibition "Art for the People" celebrates the 65th anniversary of the Shanghai Chinese Painting Academy, showcasing the evolution of Chinese painting from traditional styles to modern interpretations that resonate with contemporary life [1] Group 1: Historical Context and Evolution - The early years of the People's Republic of China saw traditional Chinese painting struggling to meet modern aesthetic demands, leading to the establishment of art academies in Beijing and Shanghai that encouraged artists to engage with real-life subjects [2] - Artists began to explore the integration of traditional techniques with contemporary themes, moving beyond the confines of traditional literati painting to depict the realities of industrial and agricultural life [3] Group 2: Artistic Transformation - The shift in focus from traditional themes to the depiction of workers and soldiers reflects a broader cultural movement during the 1950s, as exemplified by Cheng Shifa's work "Singing the Motherland in Spring," which merges traditional styles with modern subjects [3] - The "New National Painting Movement" in the 1950s and 1960s saw artists incorporating industrial and urban landscapes into their works, as demonstrated by Lu Yanshao's "Shanghai Port," which captures the bustling activity of the port [4] Group 3: Thematic Exploration in Various Genres - Flower-and-bird painting also underwent transformation, with artists like Tang Yun incorporating contemporary symbols into their works, thus bridging traditional art with modern life [5][6] - The Shanghai Chinese Painting Academy's initiatives in the late 1950s encouraged artists to extend their creativity into applied arts, resulting in a deeper connection between art and everyday life [6] Group 4: Contemporary Challenges - New-generation artists are now tasked with maintaining the core spirit of Chinese painting while engaging with global perspectives and technological advancements, prompting ongoing exploration of how to narrate Chinese stories in a modern context [7]