The annual graduation exhibition of the Central Academy of Fine Arts (CAFA) has captivated art enthusiasts from all walks of life. To unravel the enigma behind its immense popularity, reporter Li Qiong explores the artistry and narratives that lie within. 

Stepping into the exhibition hall, you can feel the creative sculptures brimming with vibrant energy, imaginative concepts and an unwavering hope for the future.

The artworks are easy to connect with and often provide food for thought.

Central Academy of Fine Arts graduate Zhang Yue introduced her work titled "Absolute Safety, Absolute Beauty," saying, "Three adult-sized baby walkers repeatedly move forward on a conveyor belt and then get pulled back. It represents what parents consider good for helping children acquire skills, but in reality, it may restrict their freedom of movement. So, I made it unable to progress, forever on the edge but never breaking free." 

As a Public Art student, Zhang Yue explained what this major means to her: "Public Art is often associated with urban sculptures, but during our learning process, we focused on studying its connection to society. Urban sculptures, placed there, can be cold and symbolic. What we've been working on is how to make it resonate with people. I believe that art has increasingly become integrated into the human world." 

After exploring traditional sculpting materials such as wood, clay and metal, many young artists like Zhang have gradually delved into how to express their thoughts about society and the world around them through acquired skills.

Sculpture Materials and Concepts graduate Sun Langdi shared his work titled "Don't Fall Behind." He noted, "I wanted to place a live lamb among this mechanical flock of sheep. Lambs huddle within the flock to ensure survival, but sometimes, they become entangled in the process." 

Inside the sculpture department building, Sun showcased his exploration of social phenomena over the years. One of his artworks titled "Through the Eyes of Blue" aims to explore the gradual erosion of people's privacy.

The CAFA Graduation Exhibition not only is a mesmerizing experience for viewers but also showcases the boundless creativity and potential of these budding artists. The works demonstrate the transformative power of education and the vibrant future of the art world.