THIS spring, the Art Museum of Guangming Culture and Art Center invites visitors into the whimsical world of Zhao Qili. Running through May 14, “Falling into Qilililith’s Rabbit Hole” marks the artist’s 10th‑anniversary solo exhibition, transforming the gallery into a dreamlike wonderland.

For Zhao, “falling” is not an accident — like Alice tumbling into a rabbit hole — but a conscious choice: a decision to look beyond familiar reality and trust in another kind of truth. The show gathers works from the past decade, showcasing her distinctive blend of delicate realism and theatrical fantasy. While “Alice in Wonderland” inspired her early pieces, Zhao’s work transcends mere retelling, offering a poetic continuation that opens a secluded realm where familiar stories lead into the unknown.

The exhibition traces the arc of the fall. Visitors begin at the brink of curiosity, peering into the unknown, then descend into a world woven from color and brushwork. As the weight of everyday life lifts, emotions buried by routine and fantasies checked by reason gradually awaken. There is no Mad Hatter or Queen of Hearts at the end of the journey — only a quiet, mesmerising space where each viewer becomes their own Alice, navigating a visual labyrinth alone.

A graduate of the Guangzhou Academy of Fine Arts, Zhao is a notable voice among the “China‑chic” generation of artists. Her work — often laced with a subtle darkness beneath its fairytale surfaces — resonates strongly with audiences, and her solo shows have become cultural highlights. Beyond painting, her aesthetic has been extended into fashion, homeware, and immersive dining experiences.

Dates: Through May 14

Venue: Art Museum, Guangming Culture and Art Center, Guangming District (光明文化艺术中心美术馆)

Metro: Line 6 to Fenghuang Town Station (凤凰城站), Exit B(Tang Li)