I've been thinking , how does Chinese contemporary art treat its own traditions from different angles and aspects? When studying Buddhist statues in the Northern and Southern Dynasties during my PHD, I got some inspiration, if we regard Buddha statues and votive texts as an image/text system of works of art, then images and texts are mutually externalized and interpreted. I applied this "Image & Text" system to my own creation. Also, I decided to combine the western painting training I received in the past and use the contemporary art method to create, explored traditional culture in a contemporary way.
In my creations, my work takes on a recognizable form - "Amulet" and "Wish" (my creations are double sided). "Amulet" is the image, an independent symbol system with specific meaning. When deciding on the picture, I firmly chose a contemporary form. I usually use rice paper, ink and other water-based materials, but the form is not figurative or meticulous. In order to interpret the "Amulet"(符), I constructed a corresponding interpretation system based on Chinese Confucianism, Buddhism and Taoism -- the "Wish"(祝), which is hidden behind the picture(usually viewers watching the exhibition won't see it). Most of the writing system(Wish) are often inspired by Buddhist scriptures and ancient books. However, the content of Wish is related to the current events. In other words, my works integrate "poetry, painting and calligraphy" into a whole, looking for a contemporary expression in Chinese traditional elements. "Amulet" and "Wish" complement each other, construct each other, and create each other's meanings.
“Empty Heart ”is a noble state of practice in Buddhism, it hopes that people can abandon excess desires and return themselves to a pure state.This admire is often associated with Muddy (also known as Nirvana).In the "Amulet" (front) , an abstract language is used to express the practice state of Muddy. In "Wish" (reverse), I wrote a poem in archaic style, trying to cut off troubles and achieve “Empty Heart ” in my own way.
祝詞(Wish):
若缘泥洹,是名空心,灭尽五阴,达无相境,乃初尝泥洹,然还未达穷极之境,永断一切身心贪爱,灭空心,通达空无我智,断尽烦恼,怔得泥洹
In Buddhism, Nirvana is also called Muddy(泥洹).People only cut off emotion and love, achieve the “Empty Heart”,can reach a state of understanding. Only then can we cut off the troubles and suddenly realize the Muddy(attain nirvana).