The Story Behind Ding Yi’s Signature Grid Paintings

Ever wondered how an artist can spend over 30 years painting the same thing—tiny, repetitive grids—and still become internationally famous? That’s exactly what Ding Yi did, creating what many initially mistake for mere fabric patterns. Yet those 'little grids' have sold for millions and caught the eye of global luxury brands. But why grids? And how did this style become so revered?

Ding Yi’s signature 'ten squares' paintings, made up of repeated crosses or grids, began in 1986 and have remained his sole focus for over 30 years. What looks like a simple pattern is actually a deliberate artistic statement—one that rejects traditional and Western influences in favor of something entirely new and detached.

What Are the 'Ten Squares' and Why Did Ding Yi Create Them?

Ding Yi calls his grid-based works '' (shí shì), a technical printing term almost no one recognizes. He started developing this visual language in 1986, though similar works existed as early as 1983. At the time, Chinese art was flooded with Western movements like Surrealism and Expressionism, and many artists were exploring urban realism or emotional street scenes. But Ding Yi took a different path.

He wanted to break free from both Chinese traditional art and Western painting conventions. His goal was to create something that felt foreign—even strange—to both. By repeating simple crosses or grids with meticulous hand-drawing, Ding Yi developed a visual language that was intentionally impersonal, mechanical, and detached from representation. Far from being bored, Ding Yi found deep engagement in this long-term, focused exploration.

Why Did Ding Yi Stick With One Style for Over 30 Years?

Most artists experiment with different styles, but Ding Yi chose disciplined repetition. He saw value in digging deeper rather than jumping between trends. This wasn’t just stubbornness—it was a commitment to artistic depth. “I don’t believe in shooting around,” Ding Yi implied. He preferred to go further into one idea instead of spreading himself thin.

This singular focus began well before his success. In fact, for much of his early career, his work was considered too avant-garde and went largely unrecognized. While others chased fame or moved abroad, Ding Yi stayed put, teaching at a Shanghai arts school for 16 years to secure time for his art. He lived on campus to save time cooking, and in 1983, he once traded a painting for a can of Nescafé—the height of cool back then.

How Did Ding Yi’s Art Gain International Recognition?

Despite decades of obscurity, Ding Yi’s persistence eventually paid off. In 1987, he sold his first painting—a modest transaction that earned him 250 yuan in exchange coupons, enough for a small appliance at the time. Fast forward to today, and Ding Yi is one of only three living Shanghai-based painters whose works have sold for over 10 million yuan (nearly $1.5 million USD) at auction.

His big breakthrough into the luxury world came when the artistic director of Hermès spotted his work in a Shanghai gallery. Impressed by its international aesthetic, they invited him to design a silk scarf—marking Hermès’ first collaboration with a Chinese artist. Ding Yi remains humble about the partnership. He stresses that the brand was drawn to the global feel of his work, not his personal input. More importantly, he warns that artists must protect their creative freedom. Giving in to brand demands can compromise both artistic integrity and long-term reputation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does '' mean in Ding Yi’s artwork?

'' (pronounced 'shí shì') is a technical printing term that roughly translates to 'ten indications' or 'ten signs.' Ding Yi chose this obscure term as the title for his grid paintings, which are made up of repeated crosses or grid-like patterns. Though the term is rarely used, it adds a layer of industrial or printed reference to his otherwise abstract art.

When did Ding Yi start painting his grid works?

Ding Yi began creating grid-based artworks as early as 1983, but his signature '' series officially started around 1986. He has continued this style consistently for over 30 years, making it his defining artistic focus.

Why did Ding Yi choose to paint the same pattern repeatedly?

Ding Yi wanted to break away from both Chinese traditional art and Western painting conventions. By using a mechanical, repetitive grid system, he aimed to create art that felt detached, impersonal, and entirely new. He found long-term depth in focusing on one concept rather than constantly changing styles.

Did Ding Yi always make money from his art?

No. For much of his early career, Ding Yi’s work was considered too avant-garde and didn’t attract buyers. In 1983, he once traded a painting for a can of Nescafé. His first paid sale came in 1987, when he sold a piece for 250 yuan in exchange coupons. Recognition and financial success came much later.

How did Ding Yi get involved with luxury brands like Hermès?

Hermès’ artistic director saw Ding Yi’s work in a Shanghai gallery and was impressed by its international aesthetic. They invited him to design a silk scarf, marking the brand’s first collaboration with a Chinese artist. Ding Yi emphasized the importance of protecting artistic freedom in such partnerships.

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