Digitalization is playing an increasingly important role in artistic creations nowadays. The 2020 Asia Digital Art Exhibition is showcasing modern works by 33 artists from different countries and regions.

The COVID-19 pandemic has turned out to be an important source of inspiration for many modern artists. Zhang Ruiyu adapted an old Chinese mythological story about a girl who hated the ocean for taking her life. Her soul turned into a little bird and vowed to fill up the ocean. She took small pieces of stones or branches and kept throwing them into the sea. 

"I combined the form of stage shows with digital installation. In adapting the traditional legend of 'Jing Wei Filling up the Sea,' I provide the audience with an immersive experience. The inspiration came after some tough times that I had this year – we all did due to the pandemic. So I hope visitors can rebuild their lives, just like Jing Wei did," said Zhang.

More artists are using digitalization and modern technologies in their creations. And some even use them to make people re-evaluate the digital age. Wang Zhiou's light installation "Prototype-1" tries to convey the message that technology can help them reshape themselves and their lives. 

"People are using AI technology to analyze connections between different people and phenomena. Sometimes the data they collect through modern means echoes ancient Chinese theories. I created this digital installation in the hope that visitors could think about their relations with the digital world," Wang said.

Not restricted to high-standard skills or professional craftsmanship, digitalization has opened the door of artistic creation to a wider world. And unique ideas can lead to unique artworks. 

For decades, German artist Ingo Gunther has been trying to predict the future of our world. He uses different digital globes to depict different visions of the fate of human civilization. What will the Earth look like if sea levels rise for another 10 meters? What if a country's territorial area is decided by its GDP?

The Asia Digital Art Exhibition runs through November 22 at the Beijing Times Art Museum.