An exhibition showcasing the works of five prominent figures who have shaped the Chinese oil painting scene is on display in Beijing. With an average age of 90, the artists have made significant contributions to the development of this art-form in China.

In total, there are 40 oil paintings on show at Beijing's Longfu Art Center. They were created by major figures in Chinese oil painting – Zhan Jianjun, Jin Shangyi, Quan Shanshi, Zhong Han and Wen Lipeng. 

They each devoted some 70 years to the art form, and established their own style and artistic language. It's the first time for them to have an exhibition together. 

"Our generation of painters, we have a sense of responsibility. After studying oil painting, we want to develop this art form in China. It's not like traditional Chinese painting, which has deep foundations in China. Oil panting was imported from the west. So we feel responsible to study it and promote it," said Wen Lipeng. 

Often addressed as the third generation of Chinese oil painters, the artists have played an important role in promoting oil painting in China. They are also the founders of the China Oil Painting Society. 

"In the past decades, the China Oil Painting Society has organized many exhibitions. And this time, I'm glad to see an exhibit that features us old people. It's a reminiscence as well as a new beginning for the China Oil Painting Society," said Jin Shangyi.

Even in old age, the artists still have a strong desire to create. Many of the works in the exhibition are recent, giving audiences a chance to admire their artistic vitality. 

What the artists have in common is their insistence on developing oil paintings with a Chinese style. They studied the similarities and differences between Chinese and Western art in great depth. By mastering Western painting skills and combining them with traditional Chinese culture, the artists have managed to create works with unique Chinese characteristics. 

"The key question is in which direction Chinese oil painting should develop. I think we are clear that we need to follow the Chinese road. It is oil painting, but it's Chinese oil painting," said Wen Lipeng.

The exhibition runs until November 30 and is free to the public.