Yan Xiangong, a 78-year-old artist in Zibo, Shandong province, recently created eight paintings featuring people's hero Jiao Yulu (1922-1964).

Jiao, a native of the city of Zibo, was a devoted county Party secretary and hero dedicated to improving the lives of local people and the development of Lankao county in Henan province in the early 1960s.

"Jiao Yulu is the pride of Zibo, and I want to pay tribute to him through my paintings in order to increase awareness of his deeds," said Yan.

A painting of Jiao Yulu. Jiao was a county official who died at his post in 1964 in Lankao and was known for his tireless spirit and public dedication. [Photo/dzrb.dzng.com]

Painting depicts Jiao Yulu working late at night. [Photo/dzrb.dzng.com]

Jiao's story has been adapted into many literary and artistic works. [Photo/dzrb.dzng.com]

Jiao is regarded as a people's hero. [Photo/dzrb.dzng.com]