Inside the studio of one of China’s most influential abstract artists
In his light-filled riverside studio in Shanghai, Ding Yi reflects on a four-decade career shaped by repetition, discipline, and the quiet evolution of a single, enduring symbol.
The Decision for the Cross
In 1988, while studying at the Shanghai Academy of Fine Arts, Ding Yi made a defining choice: he turned away from representational painting and embraced the cross – rendered as “+” or “x” – as his central motif.
This reduction became a manifesto. A lifelong commitment to abstraction.
“Once I settled on the cross motif, I’ve never strayed from this course.”
Abstraction as Identity
At a time when China had long been disconnected from Western art discourse, this decision also marked a personal search.
Ding Yi had to define his own artistic language from within:
What resonates? What kind of artist do I want to become?
His early works followed strict grid systems, gradually evolving into intricate geometric compositions—often vibrant, reflecting Shanghai’s rapid urban and cultural transformation.
From Grid to Cosmos
Since 2011, his practice has expanded into more intuitive realms—exploring nature, spirituality, and cosmic structures.
His patterns now echo constellations and celestial rhythms. The cross remains, yet it dissolves into something larger—an almost universal visual language.
A Dialogue Between Past and Future
Created in collaboration with Lisson Gallery and ShanghArt Gallery, his exhibition “Cosmotechnics” at the Fondazione Querini Stampalia brings together archival works and new creations.
Among them: twelve black-and-white relief paintings in basswood and two monumental stone steles engraved with his signature cross motif.
“Almost every civilization has used stone steles to record history,” Ding Yi reflects.
“I’m not only looking at the stars, but also back at ancient civilizations—bringing both into my work.”
Exhibition Info
“Cosmotechnics”
📍 Fondazione Querini Stampalia
🗓 May 9 – November 22, 2026
📍 Venice
