Move over, dancing cat videos – classic Chinese art is having a main character moment online! A viral wave of meme-ified Eight Horses paintings is flooding social feeds worldwide, proving Gen Z’s love for tradition can be as strong as their WiFi signals.
Originally created by 20th-century master Xu Beihong, the iconic galloping stallions are being reimagined as everything from pastel anime ponies 🎠 to cyberpunk neon steeds 🌃. The trend comes as the Year of the Horse approaches in the Lunar calendar, kicking off February 17 this year.
Why It’s Blowing Up 🔥
• Nostalgia meets novelty: Young creators are bridging centuries by mixing Xu’s ink-wash techniques with digital tools • Cultural flex: Asian diaspora users call it a "vibrant way to reconnect with roots" through shared humor • Algorithm love: Platforms like TikTok and Xiaohongshu boost #YearOfTheHorse content
Art historian Dr. Lin Wei tells us: "This isn’t just memes – it’s how global youth engage with heritage now. The horses symbolize momentum, perfect for 2026’s post-pandemic energy."
