The exhibition Yan Zhan offers a platform for young students of the Central Academy of Fine Arts to display their sculptures, paintings and installations. [Photo provided to China Daily]

"Oil paintings have only one perspective and Chinese classic painting takes multiple perspectives. But painting above all is still and limited to a single surface. Utilizing modern technologies has added more dimensions to the surface," he says.

Cross-disciplinary ideas underline many artworks displayed at the ongoing show, titled Yan Zhan, literally meaning "research and extension".

CAFA's deputy head Su Xinping says this year's exhibition sees an increase in employing crossover approaches by postgraduate students and doctoral candidates, such as oil paintings mixed with installation and woodcut animation.

He says students are embracing a more individual and experimental spirit, especially those who study painting and sculpture. The students attempt to translate traditional art forms in the contemporary context.

He believes critical thinking can prompt an art student to become an independent artist.

"Only when they face the world independently can they have insightful views," Su says.