Pai: A Series of Illustrations Depicting Loneliness

Exploring the Complex Emotions of Isolation and Connection

The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated feelings of loneliness and the desire for connection through reduced interpersonal communication. To showcase this emotional state, a series of four paintings were created to depict the various forms and expressions of loneliness. Cheng Xiangsheng, a talented digital artist, utilized line, color, and form to convey the emotions of isolation and the longing for connection. These paintings serve as a poignant reminder of the pandemic's impact on mental health and the importance of empathy and understanding during these difficult times.

This series of four illustrations portrays loneliness in a unique and imaginative manner. Cheng Xiangsheng, known for his technical skills and artistic vision, utilizes various visual elements, including lines, colors, and forms, to create a compelling narrative that showcases the complexity of loneliness. With rich colors and intricate details, the illustrations reflect the artist's imagination and skill.

What sets this series apart is its depiction of loneliness as an endless loop. This imaginative approach provides a multi-faceted portrayal of emotions, emphasizing the fact that loneliness is not just a simple, singular experience, but a complex and nuanced one. The use of vivid colors and intricate details further highlights the depth of the emotions conveyed.

In the creation of this series of illustrations, Cheng Xiangsheng utilized various hardware and software tools to bring the designs to life. The primary tools used included an iPad Pro, an Apple Pencil, and additional hardware devices. The illustrations were created using software such as Procreate, a digital illustration and painting application. These tools allowed the artist to bring their vision to life and to create high-quality digital illustrations with precision and detail. The use of cutting-edge technology and equipment ensured that the final product met the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship.

The dimensions of the design are 2048 pixels in width and 2048 pixels in height. This allows for high-resolution prints and digital displays, showcasing the intricate details and vibrant colors of the illustrations.

The series of works will be transformed into quantitative prints for display in galleries and digital artwork for display in online exhibitions. This allows for a wider audience to experience and appreciate the emotional depth and technical skill of Cheng Xiangsheng's illustrations.

The project started in Dalian in October 2022 and has continued to evolve and develop since then. Cheng Xiangsheng's dedication to capturing the essence of loneliness and connection through his illustrations is evident in the thoughtfulness and detail present in each artwork.

The design research behind this series of artworks involved exploring ways to visually convey a story through the use of specific elements and lines. Cheng Xiangsheng examined similar works for inspiration and experimented with various techniques to achieve the desired outcome. The results are a series of works that effectively convey the intended story through the use of carefully designed elements.

The most challenging aspect of this series is interpreting emotions through painting. Cheng Xiangsheng overcame these obstacles through extensive research, experimenting with various artistic techniques, and a deep understanding of emotional and cultural subtleties. The final result is a series of works that effectively convey the intended story and emotions through thoughtful and deliberate design.

Cheng Xiangsheng is a talented digital artist who creates imaginative and colorful illustrations. His works are a testament to his technical skills and artistic vision. In his digital art illustrations, Cheng explores a variety of themes and subjects, from fantastical landscapes to surreal creatures. Each of Cheng's illustrations is unique and carefully crafted, featuring a rich blend of colors and intricate details. The artist utilizes his mastery of digital tools to bring his visions to life, capturing the essence of his imagination and expressing it through his art.

This Design was awarded Iron in A' Graphics, Illustration and Visual Communication Design Award in 2023. The Iron A' Design Award is given to well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. Respected for integrating industry best practices and competent technical characteristics, they provide fulfillment and positive feelings, contributing to a better world.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Cheng Xiangsheng
Image Credits: Image #1: new media artist Xiangsheng Cheng,Annual Work No. 1, 2022. Image #2: new media artist Xiangsheng Cheng,Annual Work No. 1, 2022. Image #3: new media artist Xiangsheng Cheng, sAnnual Work No. 2, 2022. Image #4: new media artist Xiangsheng Chengg, Annual Work No. 3, 2022. Image #5: new media artistXiangsheng Cheng, Annual Work No. 4, 2022.
Project Team Members: Cheng Xiangsheng
Project Name: Pai
Project Client: Cheng Xiangsheng


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