#China Academy of Art #Graduation Season #CAA

Metamorphosis: A Vibrant Graduation Season at the China Academy of Art in 2025

As we step into 2025, an exhilarating wave of creativity pours forth from the China Academy of Art (CAA). The institution, renowned for its commitment to fostering artistic talent, has once again taken the initiative to present its annual graduation exhibition, aptly titled "Metamorphosis." This year's theme encapsulates the essence of transformation and evolution, mirroring the broader philosophical underpinnings found in Chinese traditions.

The graduation showcase, which commenced on May 31, spans multiple locations throughout Hangzhou, featuring the campuses of Xiangshan, Liangzhu, and Nanshan, as well as the Zhejiang Art Museum and several other cultural spaces around the city. With contributions from nearly 3,000 graduates across 20 different academic units, including undergraduates, postgraduates, and high school students, the event proudly displays over 3,000 works of art that collectively narrate diverse stories and artistic journeys.

A Showcase of Creativity and Innovation

Yu Xuhong, the president of CAA, expressed the significance of the graduation exhibition by stating, “This event serves as a concentrated manifestation of the CAA's commitment to artistic development and talent cultivation. It is a grand stage where 2,971 young, creative minds present their work to society.” This public exhibition not only provides a platform for new artists but also serves as a communal space for aesthetic education, enabling collective engagement with the power of creation.

This year's opening night, despite the rain, turned into a captivating experience with an immersive thematic performance art interwoven with a fashion show. Designed to stimulate both the senses and the intellect, the event transformed typical expectations into an enchanting display that unified various artistic expressions.

Liu Yihong, the artistic director of the inaugural ceremony and Vice-Dean of the Visual Communication Faculty, noted that this year's stage design broke away from traditional formats, immersing attendees in a four-sided display that resonates with the thematic spirit of metamorphosis. In line with the theme, renowned professors from the Fashion Design School, including Chen Peng and Wang Shuying, showcased collaborative projects that highlighted the innovative endeavors of graduating students, featuring a stunning collection of 158 fashion pieces.

A Legacy of Innovation

The CAA has a notable legacy as the first art academy to publicly celebrate the graduation works of students from all disciplines back in 2009. This initiative, known as the “Graduation Exhibition Week,” aims to illuminate outstanding talent within the community and positions the CAA as an