His photos highlight signature elements of the era such as colorful glass curtain walls, geometric windows, signal-tower spires, and flying saucer-shaped revolving restaurants.

To him, the boldness and experimentation of that period, often incorporating science fiction-inspired elements, reflected a shared belief in a better future.

Liu grew up during China's fastest period of transformation. The country joined the World Trade Organization in 2001, hosted the Beijing Olympics in 2008, and staged the Shanghai World Expo in 2010.

But as skylines continue to rise, the once-modern buildings of his childhood are now overshadowed, and Liu says many young people feel more anxious than inspired.

Through his work, he hopes to revive the spirit of "striving and moving forward" embodied by those older structures.