As the 2026 Spring Festival celebrations unfold, a renewed fascination with China's mythological heritage emerges through digital art interpretations of the Classic of Mountains and Seas. Bilibili illustrator Shan Ze has captivated global audiences with vivid depictions of Yingzhao and Lushu – hybrid horse-like creatures from this 2,300-year-old compendium of mythical geography.
These celestial steeds, described in ancient texts as possessing dragon scales and phoenix feathers, symbolize prosperity and cosmic harmony in Chinese tradition. Their resurgence in contemporary art aligns with this year's zodiac emphasis on equine themes, blending historical symbolism with modern digital creativity.
Cultural analysts note growing international interest in China's mythological canon, particularly among Asian diaspora communities seeking ancestral connections. The Classic's fantastical creatures now feature in academic discussions about pre-Qin dynasty cosmology and commercial animation projects alike.
While preserving traditional iconography, artists like Shan Ze employ augmented reality techniques to reimagine these beings for 21st-century audiences. This fusion of ancient wisdom and technological innovation reflects broader trends in China's cultural preservation efforts.
