The latest edition includes 25 new artworks of mythical creatures, 255 patterns, and four long scrolls, creating a more expansive worldview of The Classic of Mountains and Seas. His designs are inspired by the ancient patterns of the Warring States Period and the Han Dynasty.

Commenting on the new book, Yu Minhong, chairman of New Oriental Education and Technology Group, says it is a cultural bridge spanning ancient and modern times.

"This work not only carries forward the spiritual totems of our ancestors but also inspires contemporary individuals to explore the unknown with courage," Yu says.

More than 10 years ago, when Li Yifan was a graduate student studying graphic design at the College of Arts, Sichuan University, he made good use of the leftover pigment by painting monsters or demons from ancient Chinese legends and myths for the sake of frugality.

"I stuck to hand-drawing because I couldn't master the drawing software," he says.

He regularly drew monsters and demons as "reading notes" in cheap Xuan paper sketchbooks. The Classic of Mountains and Seas served as a good reference.

For months, it generally took Li two to three days to complete a piece of work. He posted the pictures on social media platforms, which received positive feedback.