A modern illustration exhibition titled Moments was launched at the Sinan Time Zone art gallery in Sinan Mansions in downtown Shanghai on June 18.

The exhibition features works by young local artists who have won numerous awards in international illustration competitions.

Illustrator Zhou Jiaqi introduces his artworks at the Sinan Time Zone art gallery in Sinan Mansions on June 18. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The main wall of the exhibition was created by 26-year-old illustrator Zhou Jiaqi and portrays two ladies from different eras, one wearing an elegant cheongsam, and another wearing modern clothing, sitting on the same table drinking coffee.

"The inspiration for this piece comes seeing sunlight shining on the white table cloth of a restaurant at Sinan Mansions, a scene that seemed to stop time and space," said Zhou, who graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University in the US and was an illustrator with the US internet portal Dotdash.

Also on show are a slew of Zhou's artworks that were created during the COVID-19 pandemic. They include A Glimpse of Life, a 2021 American Illustration 40 Chosen Winner and World Illustration Awards Longlist recipient.

"The artwork was created during the COVID-19 lockdown last year when dining at a restaurant with friends became difficult," Zhou said.

"I hope that the good and ordinary scenes and things of the past will not be forgotten after the epidemic."

Illustrator Tan Bowen introduces his artworks at the Sinan Time Zone art gallery in Sinan Mansions on June 18.  [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Other illustrations such as Modern Love describes the anxiety that young couples experience when separated, while the artwork Hope uses tulips and inverted glasses as a form of encouragement during the pandemic. Hope was a winner of the 2021 Communication Arts Shortlist award.

Love, a piece by Tan Bowen, a 26-year-old illustrator who graduated from California College of the Arts, was inspired by a photo of his parents taken when they were in college in Shanghai.

"There may have been countless couples who, like my parents, made vows of love somewhere in Sinan," said Tan.

"Other works in this exhibition describe the subtle moments in Shanghai, such as haircuts and public welfare scenes in our daily lives. I hope to recall some memories of Shanghai through my works," Tan added.

The music band plays music in Sinan Mansions on June 18. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

As part of Sinan Ye, a nightlife festival that features music bands, a night market, art carnival, and late-night dining options, the exhibition will last until Sept 5.

Ten domestic and international music bands, including the popular French band Made In France and Cocarde, and Jive Lizards from the United States, performed over the weekend.

More than 60 kiosks have also been set up to provide food, wine, cultural and art designs for visitors.

A pop-up flower market will also be held in light of the ongoing China Flower Expo in Chongming District.

Illustrator Shi Kefan introduces his artworks at the Sinan Time Zone art gallery in Sinan Mansions on June 18. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The music band plays music in Sinan Mansions on June 18. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]