Sweat and talent

Photo by Jiang Dong/China Daily

Huang says he lives the day lying on the ground and smelling the odor of mud. "The benefit of being down-to-earth is one will not feel the pain of falling down off the peak."

Guang Jun, professor with the Central Academy of Fine Arts, says Huang has achieved so much because he has a good appetite for art and a heart of tolerance.

"He (Huang) puts the world on one end of a balancing board and himself on the other end. He has equipped himself with special wings, and is making great efforts to perfect his art. Little by little, he gains more weight and counters the world," Guang says.

Guang sees Huang as "an old buddy" as well as a role model:

"I may feel quite contented to play teeter board with him, but I can never lift up his side."

Huang is working on the second half of his autobiography, which will recollect his experiences in wartime. He says the book's third installment will be about the twists and turns of his life from 1949 to the "cultural revolution" (1966-76).

"I'm not sure whether I can live for another 10 years and finish the other two parts. Let time decide."

If you go

Exhibition of Huang Yongyu's Art to Celebrate His 90th Birthday

9 am-5 pm, no entrance after 4 pm, closed on Mondays, until Sept 16. National Museum of China, east of Tian'anmen Square, 16 East Chang'an Avenue, Beijing. 010-6511-6400.

Related: Secrets of longevity