The solo exhibition "Mirror Universe" by Tim Yip, Distinguished Professor at Beijing Normal University's School of Future Design, opened at the Shenzhen Museum of Contemporary Art & Urban Planning (MOCAUP) on May 31, 2025. The exhibition will run until September 7, 2025.

Centered around the conceptual artwork "Lili," the exhibition comprehensively presents Tim Yip's creative vision through diverse media. It explores the convergence of Western classicism and Eastern aesthetics, the interplay of reality and illusion, and the multidimensional coexistence of time and space. Lili originated from the bronze sculpture installation "Original Desire." As a vehicle for the artist's exploration of higher-dimensional cosmic cognition, Lili exists across different locations and times, creating layered perceptions approaching infinity. Tim Yip has introduced Lili globally, incorporating diverse cultures and customs into various artistic mediums. Lili's presence challenges linear reality and fixed notions of time.

Forum Insights:

At the opening forum on May 31st, key figures discussed the exhibition's philosophy:

Curator Luo Yi stated that Lili embodies the contrasting Eastern and Western philosophical roots of humanity (spirit-flesh duality versus chaos). In the context of generative AI, Lili reflects Tim Yip's profound contemplations and prompts fundamental existential questions.

Tim Yip explained the exhibition title "Mirror Universe" stems from questioning the self-awareness of mirror reflections. He elaborated on his concept of "Spiritual DNA" – a non-physical connection shaping existence beyond material constraints – and the human quest to trace truth within the confines of time and space.

Professor Gao Peng (Dean, School of Future Design) highlighted Tim Yip's boundary-pushing career, recalling his pioneering "New Oriental Aesthetics" developed since 2007, which fused Western modernism with Eastern traditions. Gao Peng noted that Lili, in all her forms, remains an artwork prompting self-reflection.

Yan Weixin (Director, MOCAUP) likened Lili to a sponge or AI, absorbing energy to create standards that are then broken, creating a cyclical process. He expressed appreciation for Lili's inherent repetitiveness, akin to binary code ("1010").

Exhibition Details:

Title:Mirror Universe: Tim Yip Solo Exhibition

Dates: May 31, 2025 – September 7, 2025

Location:1st Floor Comprehensive Exhibition Hall, Shenzhen Museum of Contemporary Art & Urban Planning (MOCAUP)

Hours:Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 - 18:00 (Last admission at 17:30).

Closed Mondays.

Holiday hours subject to separate notice.