SHANGHAI – A modern art show, Five Times Five, was unveiled at the city's Espace Art Gallery on Saturday.

The one-month show, which is hosted by artist Shi Shaoping, features 34 pieces of work by five painters – Shi Shaoping, Wang Xibo, Wang Weiyu, Liu Bolun and Gong Xinru, all of whom are graduates of the Stage Design Department of Shanghai Theater Academy.

Li Shan, a well-known artist as well as a supervisor of the five artists, said all the works focus on the exploration of contemporary art, while they have their own characteristics and ambitions.

"The exhibition showcases their works of experiment since they graduated," said Li. "The key feature of their contemporary art is that they express themselves, their thoughts, concept of art and ambitions through their works, visible or invisible, black or white. They are talking and expressing in some way."

Li's words were echoed by Shi, who said artists make every effort to take in the essence of the tradition in order to avoid direct duplication and repetition, which pushes forward the development of contemporary art.

"People will someday, however, appreciate the art that is not tailored to popular taste," he said.

Works from the Metamorphosis Series by Shi Shaoping are displayed at the show. [Photo given to chinadaily.com.cn]