AYACY

AYACY, a Shanghai-based illustrator devoted to Guofeng (Chinese-style) creation, proudly identifies as a 'traditional Zhiguai enthusiast' and 'Wuxia fan.' Long focused on AYACY's 'Lixia and Shenguai' (Knights and Spirits) series, the artist is celebrated for AYACY's rigorous historical research methodology, sourcing material from Ming Dynasty texts such as 'Jianxia Zhuan' (Records of Swordsmen) and integrating studies of classical paintings and cultural artifacts.

Through meticulous contemplation, AYACY infuses traditional ink-wash charm and liubai (blank-leaving) techniques into modern illustration, reinterpreting classical chivalric spirit through a contemporary lens. In 2026, AYACY secured the Gold Award at the 4th National Illustration Support Program (CIAC) for AYACY's 'Five Female Knights' series. These works, depicting ancient female warriors, utilize dense compositional elements to carry narrative information while employing expansive color blocks to create imaginative space - perfectly merging modern color with Eastern traditional brushwork to vividly present the 'magnificent power and resilience of life' of women amidst flashing blades and sword shadows.

Jury president Jin Cheng acclaimed the works for demonstrating how 'contemporary illustrators achieve mastery through the integration of ancient and modern, Chinese and Western,' while juror Tian Dongming praised the 'clean and crisp brushwork, complete and unrestrained compositions, brimming with Eastern charm.' AYACY has been selected for major exhibitions including the 2025 GAF Shanghai Illustration Art Festival, attracting industry attention from figures including Yoshitaka Amano. Active across Weibo, Bilibili, and Graffiti Kingdom, AYACY continues to share creations such as 'Hongxian Nü' (Red Thread Woman) and 'Nie Yinniang,' dedicated to injecting new vitality into traditional culture through rigorous historical research and distinctive artistic language.