Judges' comments

Everything in the world occurs in cycles. Day turns to night, spring gives way to summer, autumn follows summer, then winter comes, and then spring comes again. And so on. Like in the famous film by Kim Ki-duk. One generation replaces another. But modern man tries to interfere with these natural processes, trying to resist and to control them. In his illustrations, Tang Yi reminds us how important it is to maintain harmony with the world, we are all a part of which. Everything has its time: "In autumn—we burn incense," "In winter—we make tea."

Ekaterina Borodacheva

Tang Yi’s Four Arts of Life series is super rich in detail and packed with symbolic storytelling. I really enjoy how she blends traditional Chinese aesthetics with this dreamy, modern glow—it feels both nostalgic and fresh. Each piece has a strong seasonal vibe, with great color control and loads of little moments to explore. Some parts do feel a bit crowded, and I think a bit more breathing space would help guide the viewer’s eye better. But overall, it’s a beautiful and ambitious series that shows a lot of care and effort.

Max Liu

Amidst the abundant traditional Chinese elements in the artwork, the inclusion of symbols representing the contemporary world — such as planets and electronic motifs — creates a striking sense of timelessness and a feeling of leaping across eras.

Moon Q

Tang Yi masterfully blends traditional Chinese aesthetics with a fantastical imagination. Her work is rich in symbolism and intricate detail, featuring miniature figures, ornate architecture, and flowing compositions. The vivid color palettes and layered elements create immersive dreamscapes that celebrate seasonal rituals and cultural heritage. These pieces are both decorative and narrative, inviting the viewer to explore their dense visual storytelling.

Nadiia Zhelieznova

With exquisite visual language, the artist perfectly integrates classical cultural imagery and modern technological symbols, constructing an aesthetic dialogue that transcends time and space. The work skilfully balances the traditional context with contemporary aesthetic interests and transforms human philosophical thinking about time into a highly charged visual narrative. This artistic exploration of time reflects the artist's appreciation for cultural heritage and her visionary perspective on technological civilisation.

Yimin Wang

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