Mirror images

They created a multimedia installation titled Dunhuang Kaleidoscope, using beautiful patterns from the murals to create a visual experience, taking inspiration from their previous show featuring Tokyo-based art group teamLab, known for their immersive shows using new technology.

"We all know that the Mogao Grottoes are gorgeous. But how we attract ordinary people with little knowledge of art or Buddhism has been the big question. I hope I have presented the show in a way that will allow more people to understand this culture," says Yang.

Yang took some interesting Buddhist stories depicted in the murals and turned them into animations, such as one tale of a prince who sacrifices himself as food for hungry tigers.

Yang also worked with Chinese tech giant Tencent to produce a series of emojis based on the images of flying apsaras for popular instant-messaging platform QQ. They also provided a package of online clothes and accessories from the murals for people to use on their avatars.

Yang admits there have been disagreements with the Dunhuang Research Academy on how to best present the show. But the common aim of reaching more people remained the overriding mission of the exhibition.

"The caves are a great treasure in our culture. But we should change our traditional methods of communication, especially toward the young. I think using new technology or even featuring elements from the caves in the future games might be a better way to introduce culture to younger people," Yang adds.

The show will run until the end of March.

"Speaking of Shenzhen, people usually associate the city with technology, but never with culture. I want to be a pioneer to satisfy people's spiritual needs," he says.

Next September, Yang's company will help present Shenzhen's first contemporary art fair.

Contact the writer at dengzhangyu@chinadaily.com.cn