At the University of Nottingham Ningbo China (UNNC), tradition and innovation are not conflicting forces but mutually inspiring and complementary, aiming to cultivate responsible creativity capable of shaping a sustainable future. This philosophy serves as the core driving force behind the Tracing the Future exhibition. Here, exquisite craftsmanship converges with cutting-edge technology, jointly sparking the imagination and vision of our university's faculty and students. The works in this exhibition take diverse forms, including physical models, video art, virtual reality (VR) experiences, and immersive sound installations. These pieces are the result of collaborative efforts across multiple schools and departments at UNNC, involving the Department of Architecture and Built Environment's Architecture program, the UNNC Photogrammetry and Building Information Modeling Laboratory, the Department of Mechanical, Materials, and Manufacturing Engineering's Product Design and Manufacturing (PDM) program, the Department of International Communications, and the Art Centre. The innovative spirit at UNNC is rooted in a profound understanding of the present, a thoughtful reflection on the past, and bold visions for the future—values that align closely with the pursuit of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Tracing the Future exhibition explores how our roots and history can guide us in addressing global challenges such as climate resilience, sustainable cities, and responsible consumption through innovative technologies, solutions, and cultural expressions. Among our featured works, the Department of International Communications has created an awe-inspiring VR journey that transports viewers through a reconstructed Miao ethnic cultural environment, inviting them to explore the elements of sustainability embedded in Miao lifestyles, traditions, and narratives. A series of audiovisual projects, ranging from explorations in algorithmic music to contemporary reinterpretations of Chinese folktales, provoke deep reflection on how technology influences creativity. A unique video game allows visitors to navigate the canals of Ningbo, exploring ancient architectural heritage through an interactive digital lens, highlighting the importance of preserving cultural landmarks—a key aspect of SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities). Architecture students showcase their explorations in space, form, and construction, blending artisanal techniques with digital fabrication, drawing inspiration from sustainable materials like bamboo and traditional craftsmanship, resonating with SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). Product Design and Manufacturing students reveal a series of prototype products that integrate tradition and innovation, aiming to enhance human well-being and protect the environment. These projects span from modern interpretations of acupuncture and massage, to groundbreaking VR game controllers designed for healthy interpersonal interaction, to interactive biodigesters—visualized through augmented reality (AR) and 3D modeling—that convert organic waste into usable biogas, actively advancing SDGs related to health, clean energy, and climate action. Additionally, interdisciplinary STEAM projects organized by the Art Centre delve into the connection between technology and art. While STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, the "A" in STEAM not only represents "Art" but also subtly echoes the concept of "steam"—a natural phenomenon that has historically opened new pathways for human inspiration and creativity. By exploring art through a scientific lens and infusing scientific experiments with artistic inspiration, participants discover broader possibilities on their paths of creation and exploration.