Sun Longben speaks humbly about this fusion, admitting he does not know whether it is entirely "right". Still, he hopes that by putting what he learned in Russia into practice, he can at least offer a reference for future sculpture students.

Another of his works, Straying Deep into the Lotus Bloom, takes its title from a famous classical poem. The bronze sculpture depicts withered, intertwined lotus leaves from late summer, with a figure hidden among them. It reflects the traditional Chinese literati ideal of "staying true to oneself and eschewing fame and wealth".

The exhibition also includes Sun Longben's latest series in which natural stones are embedded into 3D-printed sculptures. The contrast, he explains, represents an ongoing dialogue between nature and technology, uniqueness and reproducibility.

Notably, there are no written explanations for any of the works at the exhibition. "They're meant for the public. There's no need for so many barriers," he says.

His friends, upon learning that their sculptures would be displayed in a shopping mall, were delighted, remarking, "Art has entered everyday life."

Fan Xiaojun, from the mall's marketing department, notes that while they usually rely on bright colors for holiday decorations, this year they chose a more modern, minimalist approach to highlight the sculptures as public preferences evolve.

Despite initial worries about potential damage, Fan says the public has been incredibly respectful during the exhibition's first 20 days, and the sculptures have become popular "check-in" spots on social media.

For the members of the amateur senior arts troupe, who are retirees over 60, the exhibition has become a backdrop for their rehearsals. "We just had lunch in the mall and saw this beautiful exhibition," one member says. "It's lovely."

Bai Shuhao contributed to this story.