Traditional art depicts modern industry

So Song carefully studied and patiently pondered over each process, meticulously completing every step.

Despite consuming a lot of time and energy, it has also honed her skills.

"Every time after finishing a piece of work, I will repeatedly check the details with a critical eye," she said. "I often make multiple modifications before mounting it."

To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the discovery of the oilfield in 2019, Song created a portrait of Wang Jinxi, who was nicknamed "Tieren" (Iron Man) by his fellow workers and local residents.

"Wang is the model oilfield worker who led Drill Team No 1205 and devoted his life to the development of the petroleum industry," she said. "The 'Iron Man' spirit is the spiritual benchmark of all Daqing people."

However, Song experienced some difficulties during the creative process.

"In most of the photos, Wang wore heavy winter coats, the folds of which were difficult to depict using wheat-straw painting," she said.

"After some experimentation, I found that by ironing for a longer time, the wheat straw could easily display the texture of the clothing folds, making the work look more realistic."