Some of the paintings on display at an exhibit commemorating the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45) and the World Antifascist War in Tianjin's Hedong district. [Photo by Yan Dongjie/chinadaily.com.cn]

Nearly 100 visitors attended the opening of an art exhibit in Tianjin's Hedong district on Thursday, commemorating the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45) and the World Antifascist War.

The exhibition, organized by the Hedong District Publicity Department, will run until Oct 18. It features 80 works, including Chinese paintings, oil paintings, prints, and watercolors, intended to highlight historical memory and national spirit.

Artists drew heavily from history for their pieces. Jiang Haoxuan of the OR Cultural Center contributed Veteran: A Youth When the Smoke of War Rose, a work inspired by his grandfather, who joined the resistance at age 13. "I hope the memories of the older generation's eventful years can be passed down through the brushes of younger artists," Jiang said.

For some visitors, the exhibition was also a way to connect the past with the present. "I'm delighted to have such an art exhibition that can cultivate children's patriotic sentiments from a young age," said Hao Fenghe, a parent who visited the exhibition with his 4-year-old child.

Other works emphasized symbolism. Qi Baocheng, a professor at Tianjin Normal University's College of Fine Arts & Design, presented A Spark of Fire, which incorporates loess walls, oil lamps, and candles to "evoke memories of historical scenes like the tunnel warfare".

Organizers say the exhibition aims to keep alive the memory of the war while encouraging reflection through art.