Judges' comments

When I saw the illustrations of ChiaChingLO, I was immediately captivated by the manner in which they were made. I began to wonder if it was watercolor or pastel. How did the artist manage to achieve such an extraordinary softness of shades? I believe the secret of such mastery lies not in the crafting materials but in the artist's hands in her spiritual energy which ChiaChingLO puts into every work of art.

Ekaterina Borodacheva

The warmth and softness in this series feel sincere and grounded. There’s a strong sense of place, and the domestic details—like the fan, the fridge, the little stool—build a very lived-in world. The floral headpieces in the second image add a surreal charm, but still stay personal. Technically, the blending and texture work really well with the mood—quiet but not dull. It feels nostalgic, but not overly sentimental. Very solid work.

Max Liu

The detailed depiction and overall color tones give the illustration a strong sense of everyday life. The way the flowers are rendered almost makes the viewer feel as if they can catch a faint whiff of their fragrance.

Moon Q

The softness of ChiaChingLO’s rendering, combined with warm lighting and thoughtfully composed interiors, results in illustrations that are both intimate and atmospheric. The work stands out for its narrative depth and emotional subtlety.

Nadiia Zhelieznova

The haziness of this work is unforgettable, and the artist manages to visualise soporific glow diffusing through a siesta hour, the fragrant aroma wafting from ladies' hair, and the ambience of a road leading to unknown pleasures, which in a synaesthetic way stimulates the viewer's other senses, stirring up a sense of empathy and longing for tranquility. It reminds me of eudaimonia, a term derived from Ancient Greek philosophy and meaning 'the ultimate goal of human life'.

Yimin Wang

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