Xia Xinyi
Silver Prize
Title: Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland
Competition Theme: Intersection of Literature and Art
Medium: Graphic Communication
Emerging artist Xia Xinyi has been recognized with the Silver Prize for her inventive three-dimensional pop-up book, "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland." In this unique adaptation, Xia blends elements from notable characters such as the Rabbit and the Mad Hatter, and contrasts between the Red and White Queens to create a rich symbolic narrative. The project's background, inspired by Salvador Dalí's "The Persistence of Memory," underscores themes of time's transformative nature. Xia employs ultralight clay to craft scenes of a decaying forest, enhancing the enchanting atmosphere of her creation. The integration of recycled materials, like soda cans for robust tree features, not only underscores a commitment to environmental consciousness but also enriches the visual and creative depth of the work.
The judges were notably impressed with Xia's astute selection of the classic tale, which meshed seamlessly with the proposed format and enhanced the project's thematic depth. They praised Xinyi for their playful yet sophisticated exploration of the material, which is evident in her skillful use of repurposed objects that vividly animate the whimsical world of Wonderland. The judges also appreciated Xia's thorough presentation, which included a discussion of adjusted or omitted elements, such as the exquisite paper flowers. This willingness to refine and evolve her artistic process was highlighted as a demonstration of Xia's adaptability and eagerness to learn, qualities that are invaluable in creative practice.