His work takes inspiration from the Chu Ci, an ancient anthology of poetry, and centuries-old lacquerware that represent the dynamic history and arts of Hubei. According to Wang Luxiang, a scholar and the exhibition's academic supervisor, Yi seeks to convey an atmosphere of grace and relaxation, rather than the weight of history, as a result of which he is recognized as a spearhead of the novel Chu style.

Xu Lian, deputy director of the China National Academy of Painting, says that Yi's work has blazed a new trail for the reinvention of Chinese painting over time.