Reflection

While creating this piece, I often wandered between city and nature, witnessing the "concrete jungle" squeezing the ecosystem, and wanted to use art to mend the cracks. The collision of architecture, alienated creatures, and vibrant natural elements was the source of inspiration, aiming to present the complex connection between humanity and nature—a connection that is both conflicting and interdependent. Using illustration (using flat media like markers, which I've often used to record fragments of inspiration and create fantastical scenes) allowed me to directly bring to life the images of city and nature intertwined in my mind. During the creative process, the brushstrokes felt like a dialogue with nature; this creative process allowed me to break free from the framework of reality and touch my inner yearning for ecological symbiosis—it was incredibly satisfying! Exploring the competition theme, I understood that "connection with nature" is about awakening awe and love for nature inwardly, and protecting it outwardly through action. I want to use this work to tell the audience: don't let the city isolate us from nature. Even in a concrete jungle, we should remember—we are part of nature; protecting it is protecting our roots.