Every stroke is a gorgeous spark that has been burning in heart for a long time.
——Li Zhijing
Li Zhijing, a professor at Xiamen University, has been dedicated to comic creation and teaching for a long time. Ms. Li, adopting "Coffee Bean" as her pseudonym and guided by "creative thinking," refers to her work as graffiti on ordinary life. Her comics emphasize a creative approach that embraces freedom, spontaneity, and local inspiration. By recording warm moments, reflecting on contemporary society, engaging in inner dialogues, and pursuing serene joy, her works evoke deeply resonating insights in audiences.
Li Zhijing's comics and lectures are cherished by both faculty and students. Her creative philosophy and style are regarded as innovative in traditional comic creation. Through her comics, she conveys positivity and inspires students to discover beauty in life through their artistic pursuits.
Small-scale observations and recordings become increasingly precious as ordinary life continues with beautiful moments.
On March 20, 2025, the Spring Equinox, the "Li Zhijing Cartoon Exhibition" was held in the Hall of the 1st Floor, Xi'an Eurasia University Library. A visual feast about the philosophy of life art kicked off.
The opening ceremony starts with "comics" as the theme, unveiling the door to art.
Xi'an Eurasia University practices the philosophy that "education is a part of life, and it's influenced by the surrounding environment." Here, each cultural exhibition and activity promotes the perpetuation of aesthetic appreciation, innovative spirit, and humanistic sentiments.
During the opening ceremony, Professor Hu Jianbo, representative of the exhibition organizer and Chairman of Xi'an Eurasia University, warmly welcomed the guests and audience attending. He stated that comics, as a unique art form, provide not only visual enjoyment but also touch the soul. Xi'an Eurasia University is dedicated to offering diverse artistic experiences to teachers, students, and the public, and this exhibition exemplifies this principle in practice.
(Photo 3) Professor Hu Jianbo Delivered a Speech
Special guest Professor Wu Daguang subsequently gave a speech. He expressed that Ms. Li Zhijing's works capture life's understated beauty and profound philosophical reflections using a unique perspective and delicate brushwork. "A well-rounded university should accumulate academic, cultural, and artistic heritage, which forms an essential aspect of its cultural influence," stated Wu Daguang.
(Photo 4) Professor Wu Daguang Delivered a Speech
Ms. Li Zhijing, the curator and artist of this exhibition, a faculty member at Xiamen University, and a comic creator, shared her creative insights at the opening ceremony. To her, comics serve as a medium to document life and express her individuality. Through comics, she captures fleeting inspirations and life realizations on paper. Ms. Li Zhijing stated, "The concepts of 'cultural aesthetics' and 'Pluralitas in unitatem' at Xi'an Eurasia University resonate with my artistic spirit. It is an honor to hold this comic exhibition at Xi'an Eurasia University."
(Photo 5) Ms. Li Zhijing Delivered a Speech
Ms. Li, using comics as her artistic tool, transforms everyday moments into thoughtful illustrations and reflections. To eternally preserve these treasured moments, she gifted select artworks to Xi'an Eurasia University. Professor Hu Jianbo accepted the gift on behalf of the university. Together, the two jointly completed this transmission of art and aesthetic education.
(Photo 6) Ms. Li Zhijing Present Her Painting to Xi'an Eurasia University
(Photo 7) Group Photo of On-site Guests
Exploring the exhibition of daily life, discovering the essence of living
Upon stepping into the exhibition hall, it feels as if one has entered a personal "life journal."
The "Graffiti of Coffee Beans" series vividly demonstrates Ms. Li Zhijing's keen observations of life and her unwavering pursuit of art, portrayed in a lighthearted and humorous manner. Her artworks capture poetic nuances, spanning from mundane daily details to profound life philosophies, as well as from natural landscapes to societal phenomena, imbuing life with distinctive colors and meanings through each stroke.
Those moments that appear ordinary are transformed into lively and engaging scenes through her brush. As she expressed, "Creation is never a deliberate act, but rather a gentle dialogue with the simplicity of life."
Beyond her unique cartoon style and artistic creations, Ms. Li Zhijing draws considerable attention with her innovative conceptual approach. Her philosophy of "carefree, aimlessness, boundlessness, and informal discourse" constructs a serene spiritual utopia within each piece and for every viewer, captivating their senses.
On doodles beside coffee cups and contemplations in the morning light
During the subsequent salon themed "Leisure Songs & Comics Discourses: Daily Observations and Creations by Li Zhijing," Li Zhijing shared her creative journey and life insights with the audience, guiding everyone into the artistic realm of "Coffee Bean."
(Photo 13) Li Zhijing's Sharing on Her Thematic Salon
"Creation is a spiritual journey. In the realms beyond the reach of language and AI, inner peace and purity are essential to discovering one's unique mode of expression." She firmly believes that with passionate dedication, art does not need lofty pedestal placements—it always leads to a personal garden of inspiration. "Embarking on a journey is the true principle." This statement reflects her approach to creative endeavors and even perspective on life.
(Photo 14) Li Zhijing's Sharing on Her Salon
"People Strive for Upward Mobility" and "Sophisticated Self-interest" artworks show Li Zhijing's profound insights into life and society. In the form of comic books, she guides the audience to think about how to find their own life direction rather than blindly following others' steps. She stressed, "Self-interest is human nature, and how to benefit yourself is personality. 'Exquisite self-interest' requires lifelong learning and cultivation."
The in-depth sharing of Li Zhijing inspired reflections on life, art, and beauty among the audience. The topics they explored together included the integration of art and education, the pursuit of human creativity's uniqueness amidst technological progression, and the insights into capturing everyday inspiration...Participants, both teachers and students, enthusiastically engaged in discussions, fostering a vibrant atmosphere.
At the conclusion of the salon, Qiu Lu expressed her realization, "Ms. Li's comics are imbued with philosophical reflections and wisdom, presenting dialectical thinking. This unrestricted conversation disrupted our cognitive boundaries, enabling us to comprehend and embrace the present more profoundly."
Aesthetics is a perpetual journey that requires immersion in an environment enriched with beauty. Xi'an Eurasia University consistently upholds aesthetic education as a bridge, fostering dialogue with the public on perception and growth. It encourages students to enrich themselves, learn the art of living poetically, and achieve holistic development.
Each exhibition serves as a gentle awakening. With a dedication to the principle of "long-termism," Xi'an Eurasia University is anticipated to cultivate a deeper spiritual essence in the future.
Boundless Dialogue of Comics · Artistic Philosophy of Life
Comic Works Exhibition of Li Zhijing
Duration:
March 20-April 20, 2025
Venue:
Hall of the 1st Floor, Administrative Center, Xi'an Eurasia University
Hosted by
Xi'an Eurasia University
Undertaken by
Teacher Development Center of Xi'an Eurasia University
Brand Communication Department of Xi'an Eurasia University
(Text by the Brand Communication Department)
