From ceramics to metal, from realistic figures to abstract post-modern images, a complex world of contemporary Chinese sculpture is presented at an exhibition of young artists from Chinese Sculpture Academy.

The exhibition, which opened on Aug 22 at the Chinese Museum of Women and Children, showcases the works of 21 young sculptors from the academy, which is attached to the Chinese National Academy of Arts.

"This exhibition shows how the younger generation of Chinese sculptors has learned from both Chinese and Western sculpture traditions, as well as the visual arts revolution of the 20th century," says Wu Weishan, director of the Chinese Sculpture Academy. "It also shows young Chinese artists' understanding of the specific time, location and context in which they live."

Some of the artists, like Zhang Wei and Zhi Min, in the spirit of classical Chinese art, express spiritual transcendence through ritual scenes. Some others, like Qu Feng and Chen Gang, present their views on nature and society.

The young sculptors' exploration of materials is a highlight of the exhibition. Zhang and Zhi choose ceramics to add more elements of traditional Chinese culture into their works, while Qu and Chen use wood to invoke the vitality of art. Li Hengfeng and Wang Wei present their idea of "humans and nature in harmony" through the use of melted metal. There are also works using more complex materials.

Founded in 2007, Chinese Sculpture Academy gathers some of the most acclaimed artists and experts. In 2010, it inaugurated the Creative Center for Young Sculptors, to provide young Chinese sculptors more opportunities to display their creativity.

The 21 participants of the collective exhibition are all members of the Creative Center for Young Sculptors.

The exhibition is the third of a series by artists from the Chinese National Academy of Arts.