Artist Leyao Xia at Work
“Praying in a temple at the beginning of a year is traditional for Chinese people. In recent years, especially with the impact of Covid-19, the idea of “praying online” is becoming increasingly popular. This phenomenon, which perfectly combines the traditional and the modern, inspired me to create these images. Due to the trying situation we are all facing, let’s pray for good luck in a virtual world.”
Leyao Xia
Leyao Xia is currently studying for her MFA in Graphic Design at Manchester Metropolitan University. She is from Chongqing, China, and was influenced by the “Chinese cyberpunk” feel of the city. Her work often features contemporary visuals enmeshed with folkloric tradition. Leyao refers to her own art style as “retro-futurism”.
You can find more of Leyao’s work here and follow her on Instagram.
This creative piece was submitted as part of our December theme: Hope. If you would like to submit your own creative work to aAh! Magazine, please email aAh.Editor@gmail.com, and be sure to check our latest “Letter from the Editors” to find out next month’s theme.
Featured image: WendyWei.pexels With the most anticipated night of the year right around the corner, the big question is looming: where are you going to celebrate it? Whether you dread it or count down the days, are new to the Manchester nightlife scene or are a regular, we’ve got your New Year’s Eve plans sorted….
By Georgia Robinson Featured image and gallery: Ruby Sharp Get one step ahead of your 2025 aesthetic and plan your outfits for the new year with this guide to all the trends we expect to see next year. Why not jazz up your wardrobe with trending accessories or browse Depop and Vinted for a pre-loved…
Featured image and gallery: Kaitlyn Brockley The rumble of trains passing through Piccadilly station, the hollers of touts (“tickets, buy or sell?”) and security (“have your IDs ready”), and the excitable chatter of gig-goers all audibly backdrop the outskirts of Manchester’s Mayfield Depot this dark, damp evening. Leaving the outside chill and travelling along the…
Featured image and gallery: Leo Woollison Crook Angela Cheveau and Kate Carne were crowned winners of the 2024 QuietManDave Prize on Friday. The short-form writing prize is held biennially to honour the memory of the much-loved and well-known Manchester writer and critic Dave Murray, who passed away in 2019. The writers were each awarded £1000…
Leave a reply