To the artist, this inflatable installation is "a metaphor about the pressure to think, observe and share the space we are in under the conditions of uncertain disadvantage, but with a clear sensory advantage due to the sheer volume of objects displayed by the subject".

This new relationship between "seeing and being seen, the exhibits and the exhibition space", embodied by the chain reaction between the works, the space and the audience, is the most characteristic and powerful part of the artist's visual world, says Zhu.

Other works, such as the Kaleidoscopic Tunnel, an immersive installation that invites the audience to experience his surrealistic and metaphorical universe, are also popular with visitors.

For many people, the rich colors, geometric patterns and familiar icons, such as the skull, the winged angel and Mickey Mouse, are ideal subjects for photography and provide an interesting background for selfies, too.

"I see lots of life and energy in his art," said Gu Yu, a visitor, at the opening. "It lightens up your mood, and then makes you think about serious issues such as life and death, nature and destiny."

Born in 1980, San Miguel was in 1997 recognized for his creations along the railroads and in abandoned factories in his hometown. Since then, he has developed a distinctive style featuring multicolored geometric structures and patterns that are coupled with gray bodies and organic forms. In his paintings, skulls are symbols of life, while doves represent freedom.

"I like to explore the potential of mutations between them, as well as between animals and humans, playing with their scales and creating impossible digital creatures," the artist wrote in a message to Chinese audiences.

If you go

Kaos Trip: A Colorful Journey by Okuda San Miguel

Bund 18 Jiushi Art Gallery, 18 East Zhongshan No 1 Road, Huangpu district, Shanghai.

10 am-6 pm, Tue-Sun, Aug 21-Oct 24.

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