The Year of the Ox, niu in Chinese, is being celebrated with hundreds of creative ox-themed products, videos and art. The ox, the second sign in the Chinese zodiac, is associated with industriousness and perseverance.

The National Art Museum of China in Beijing heralded the Chinese New Year with an exhibition of masterpieces inspired by the ox. The Vitality of Art has brought together nearly 600 traditional Chinese paintings, oils, calligraphy, sculptures and folk art.

They include images by Chinese masters such as Qi Baishi, known for his whimsical water colors, and Feng Zikai, also admired for his cartoons and essays.

In addition, there is a section of paintings depicting significant moments during the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) containment, a tribute to the efforts of medical workers and people across the country.

The exhibition will close on March 14.