Exploring the Past and Future with Ni Zhishuai's Artwork

Unveiling the Unique Blend of Traditional and Futuristic Themes in Art

Ni Zhishuai's inspiration for "Past and Future" stems from the rapid advancement of human science and technology. She observes that while these developments have made life more convenient, they have also led to a growing indifference in human relationships. This led her to question what the world would look like if artificial intelligence replaced the human connections we are familiar with.

Her artwork is a unique fusion of graffiti and acrylic painting techniques, offering a fresh interpretation of the Monkey King, a classic figure in Chinese literature. The piece incorporates elements of cyberpunk science fiction, creating a striking visual contrast between traditional and futuristic themes. The Monkey King, symbolizing the past, is set against the backdrop of mechanical and metallic elements, representing the future.

Created using acrylic on canvas and spray paint, the artwork measures 420mm in width, 20mm in depth, and 596mm in height. The piece serves as a medium for the artist to communicate with the audience, with each viewer deriving a unique interpretation and thought process from the artwork.

The project began in April 2020 in China and was exhibited in Shanghai in November 2020. Ni Zhishuai faced the challenge of combining figurative illustration images with abstract patterns, and integrating traditional culture with future technology. She overcame these obstacles through extensive research and experimentation with acrylic painting techniques.

Ni Zhishuai's "Past and Future" has been recognized for its innovative design and thought-provoking theme, winning the Iron A' Fine Arts and Art Installation Design Award in 2022. This prestigious award is given to well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements and contribute to a better world.