Judges' comments

A very emotional and, at the same time, very beautiful series of illustrations. The artist creates his works so we can feel the experiences of his character. He does not use the usual, standard artistic techniques. Pen So's images are truly unique and very understandable. The phrase "animated surrealism" comes to mind. I will definitely remember these works for a long time. Thank you!

Ekaterina Borodacheva

Love the consistent style and atmosphere across the series. The limited palette works great and gives it a cold but dreamy tone. The candlelight and floating lanterns add a gentle rhythm that carries the story forward. Composition is solid. If anything, the texture of the snow and shadows could be pushed further — some areas feel a bit too evenly treated. But overall, very poetic and visually cohesive.

Max Liu

The artist’s composition is highly skillful, seamlessly combining scenes from different angles. The background colors clearly define the layers of the image, making the foreground stand out and drawing attention to the intricate details. At the same time, the use of low-value tones in the background enhances the glowing effect of the yellow areas.

Moon Q

PenSo’s series tells a deeply symbolic story through a controlled, cinematic visual language. Frozen trains, melted candles, and drifting swans become metaphors for emotional stagnation and inner transformation. Despite the cold, heavy atmosphere, each image contains a quiet sense of movement — both literal and psychological. The compositions are meticulously structured, and the use of black, white, and yellow against a muted background reinforces the tension between pressure and illumination. It’s a visually rich and conceptually ambitious reflection on choice, burden, and willpower.

Nadiia Zhelieznova

The artist's simple colour scheme, combined with the delicate black outlines, externalises the protagonist's inner struggle. The symbol of the swan breaking free from its shell in the stream of consciousness provides a surprising flash of light and a sense of relief after the 'storm'. I appreciate the artist's unique talent for visualising the dynamic sense of willpower through poetic narratives.

Yimin Wang

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