Another reason for this rise in popularity, Shi adds, is the increase in demand for illustrations.

"The income of illustrators is now higher and the source of work is more diversified than before. Illustrations used to appear only in print media, but the advent of e-commerce and digital media has created a greater demand," Shi says.

Zhou shares the same point of view as Shi.

"Companies dealing with real estate, fashion, product packaging, among others, are increasingly using illustrations to form closer relationships with their customers and this has had a positive impact on the profession," Zhou says. "The remuneration one gets from commercial illustration is also generally much higher than in print media, and this is also a factor."

As part of a nightlife festival, called Sinan Ye, that features live music, a night market, art carnival, and late-night dining options, the exhibition will last until Sept 5.

More than 60 kiosks have been set up to provide food, wine, cultural and art designs for visitors.

A pop-up flower market will also be held in light of the ongoing China Flower Expo in Chongming district.

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