Liu says their team are often moved by stories behind these paintings. Many try to discuss the identities of mothers. Some, before becoming mothers, may have been a spoiled daughter, a rebellious teenager or a girl only interested in fashion trends. They are just normal young people before embracing the responsibility of parenthood.

Artist Zhang Pei paints from the only two photos of his mother and him as a child. His story is heart breaking. He grew up with his grandparents and seldom met his own mother. After he finally tracked his mother down in later life, she gave him the two photos and left.

On the opening night on Aug 5, the museum invited about 500 families. There is a special space where young visitors can paint portraits for their mothers. The show goes through to Nov 5.