Recently, a painting exhibition featuring the folk life of "Old Beijing" was held at Rongbao House on Liulichang Street in Beijing.

Liulichang Street, with its reputation of old relics on sale, seems to be the best place for the nostalgia on display. Featuring hundreds of works of Ma Haifang, the exhibition offers a visual choir of folk life of Beijingers.

Peddlers peddling, butchers butchering, and jugglers juggling. All walks of life in the old city are brought back to life. Although one may still encounter some of the familiar scenes in some Beijing hutongs, most of these old scenes are vanishing out of modern life. So, those who want to explore more, Ma's exhibition is a good choice.

Cui Yongyuan, a famous TV host, said "When I first saw his paintings, I wanted to smile, as they bring back my childhood memories. Then I find it a little sad, for such wonderful folk life is disappearing. So we could only find it in Ma’s paintings. I wish we could revive the fun and joy of the old living style in this concrete jungle."

It is said that Ma Haifang always brings his painting book with him. He opens his eyes wide to life and communicates with it. With the use of exaggeration and bright colors, Ma combines the western painting style with Chinese water-ink. Depicting this earthly life in a modern point of view, the exhibition takes visitors back in time.