The theme of my project is an imaginative exploration of unreal dragons: Dragon is Everywhere. The entire project reflects my ongoing exploration of materials and concepts. I focus on dragons, drawing inspiration from Chinese philosophy and the Five Elements (Wu Xing)—Metal, Wood, Water, Fire, and Earth. By combining reality with fantasy, I invite viewers not to look for the dragon’s physical form but to immerse themselves in its imagined realm. My work primarily uses acrylic paint, with each of the five themes employing distinct techniques that align with their elements—such as burning for fire and cracked textures for earth. These techniques reflect the unique nature of each element and bring different visual experiences to the audience. Ultimately, I hope to push viewers beyond preconceived notions, encouraging them to enter five distinct worlds and discover their own interpretation of the dragon—not through literal imagery but through personal imagination and emotional engagement.

 

Dai Shijie