"The observational data in those yellowing notes, the mix of anxiety and excitement during the wild releases, and the transformation from the temporary Qinling No 1 protection station to a national nature reserve have all become the most moving stories on my canvas," she says.

Since 2009, the crested ibis has been a central theme in her artistic creations.

Published by Shaanxi Travel & Tourism Press, the book brings together 35 oil paintings by Yanzi that capture the key moments in the bird's conservation journey — the joy experienced by researcher Liu Yinzeng in 1981 when he discovered seven crested ibises; the dedication behind the breakthroughs in artificial breeding in 1990; the excitement in 2000 when the population surpassed 100; and today's breathtaking sight of thousands of crested ibises flying across a 16,000-square-kilometer habitat.

"With a documentary style, I use paint to honor the ordinary heroes who sustain life and to showcase China's efforts in protecting endangered species," she says.

"I hope more people come to understand that every life is worth protecting and every act of perseverance can lead to miracles."

The crested ibis, a large bird with white plumage, a distinctive red face, and a long, downward-curving bill, was once considered extinct.

Over the past 45 years, its population has grown from the verge of extinction to more than 11,000, spreading across 10 provinces in China, including Shaanxi, as well as Japan and South Korea.

This recovery is the result of continuous strict habitat protection, scientific research, and public participation, especially in Yangxian, where conservation efforts first began, says Meng Jianliang, deputy head of the publicity department of Yangxian county government.

Nirvana and Rebirth is just one of several books published by Shaanxi Travel & Tourism Press that focus on ecological and environmental protection.

yangyangs@chinadaily.com.cn