Environmental Illustration

Liqiao Water Town

Liqiao Water Town is an illustration inspired by my hometown in China. The artwork captures a traditional iron flower performance (Da Tie Hua), in which molten iron is struck into the air, creating brilliant showers of golden sparks. Set against the white walls and dark-tiled roofs of traditional Huizhou architecture, the scene contrasts the quiet atmosphere of the water town with the fleeting brilliance of the performance. Through this contrast, I hope to convey the beauty of local traditions and the cultural memories of my hometown.

Behind the image

The illustration began as a traditional ink painting, using layered washes and subtle textures to depict the architecture, water, and atmospheric depth of Liqiao Water Town. After scanning the original painting, I digitally added the glowing iron sparks and their reflections on the water. The combination of traditional ink techniques and digital illustration creates a contrast between stillness and movement, bringing the nighttime performance to life.

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Illustration & visual storytelling