Soka Art is honored to present a new solo exhibition by artist Wang Yiya, titled "Rendezvous at the Heavenly Terrace", on display from December 21, 2024, to January 4, 2025. The term “Heavenly Terrace” carries multiple layers of meaning, referring to snowy terraces, dressing tables, and even the mythical abodes of deities. Inspired by the imagery of female immortals in traditional culture, the artist explores the evolution and intersection of female representations in religion, literature, and art. "Rendezvous at the Heavenly Terrace" invites viewers on a spiritual journey to set aside worldly distractions and join a celestial gathering of fairies.

The imagery of female immortals has been a recurring motif in the works of poets and artists, embodying a cultural symbol at the confluence of art, literature, and faith. In Wang Yiya’s creations, women break free from the stereotypes imposed by historical narratives. Whether portrayed in solitude or within groups, they exhibit an aura of serene independence and warmth. These figures are both transcendent yet closely connected to the human realm, symbolizing a spirit of resilience, harmony, and mutual understanding among women. Her works evoke the intimacy of a knowing glance shared among close friends and the grandeur of a celestial feast, rich with floral fragrances, fluttering butterflies, and vibrant clouds. Here, women are freed from societal and identity constraints, naturally expressing their true selves. By reinterpreting classical imagery, Wang offers a reflective mirror for modern women, allowing audiences to escape the utilitarian pressures of contemporary society and rediscover inner peace and fulfillment. Rendered with meticulous gongbi brushwork, the figures are exquisitely detailed in their expressions, attire, and gestures. The artist complements the subjects with finely layered backgrounds of mountains, architecture, and flora, combining the elegance of traditional gongbi painting with innovative visual rhythms.

This work, Flying Pavilion Crown, integrates the imagery of ornate crowns with the “Heavenly Terrace,” symbolizing ethereal palaces and pavilions. It continues Wang Yiya’s exploration of the relationship between painting and craftsmanship. Through her meticulous gongbi technique, the artist transforms culturally rich symbols—such as pavilions, crowns, and noblewomen—into profound reflections on contemporary life and women’s issues. For the first time, she incorporates a luminous halo effect into her composition, enhancing the spatial depth of Flying Pavilion Crown. This approach not only reinforces the exhibition's celestial theme, but also accentuates the spiritual significance and inherent value of feminine adornments. Viewers are transported to a transcendent, spiritual realm, making this piece one of the exhibition’s most e

During the Song Dynasty, women had a particular fondness for pearls, and their crowns were often adorned with thousands of them. In the Queen's Crown series, which depicts the crowns of Song Dynasty empresses, intricate pearl embellishments can be observed throughout. Compared to other pieces in the series, Pure Essence features a high-brightness sky-blue palette, creating an atmosphere of purity and elegance. The painting incorporates imagery of cranes in flight and musicians performing, evoking a cheerful and lighthearted mood. This approach contrasts with the solemnity typically associated with royal ceremonial items, subtly suggesting that the young women wearing such crowns were often inexperienced and unworldly. Through its thoughtful use of color and detail, the artwork allows viewers to glimpse the youthful and tender girl beneath the symbols of imperial power and authority. It also offers a perspective that challenges traditional historical narratives.

This exhibition invites viewers to encounter these female figures under the moonlight of the Heavenly Terrace. Their transcendence is imbued with the warmth of humanity, encouraging us to reconsider the multifaceted nature of femininity. These women are not mere fragile beings conforming to traditional ideals but vibrant forces of life, enriched by religion, literature, and art. Even today, they continue to resonate with vitality, guiding us through the drifting mists to join this celestial rendezvous.

thereal and innovative works.