04
Li Xueer

 The word “腾飞”（take off）in Chinese most directly means the rapid ascent or flight of an object or creature.
 In modern usage, it is often used to metaphorically describe the leapfrog progress and remarkable development achieved by individuals, careers, economies, or regions within a short period. This development is not a slow climb but rather like a bird taking flight with a powerful burst of energy and hope. The lower right corner of the character “腾飞”（take off）is composed of the Chinese character“马” （horse）

 Meanwhile, the use of swallows in the imagery references the traditional Chinese cultural artifact "Horse Treading on a Flying Swallow" (see the final sculpture). Objects viewed from the angle of a galloping horse are typically interpreted as a swallow, symbolizing that the horse runs so fast it can even step on the swallow's back, cleverly echoing the theme of "take off."

Title: 腾飞 (Take Off)
Artist: Li Xueer
Medium: Digital Painting
Year: 2026