The National Exhibition of Fine Arts has shown many iconic works, such as Zhou Sicong's People and Premier Zhou. [Photo provided to China Daily]

Held every five years, the National Exhibition of Fine Arts organized by the China Artists Association is an all-compassing art show of great significance and standing in the country.

Over the decades, the exhibition has featured many iconic works including Xu Beihong's Tian Heng and His 500 Retainers and Zhou Sicong's People and Premier Zhou.

The 13th installment of the show will be held in Beijing in December, and will feature displays of paintings, prints, sculptures, photos, installations and other mixed media works produced in China over the past five years.

The selection process for submissions accepted from around the country will begin in August. Shows featuring works from a range of artistic disciplines will take place in 13 cities across China, from which the finalists will be selected for the main exhibition in Beijing.

A panel from the National Exhibition of Fine Arts will also award 40 artworks the gold, silver or bronze medals.