iPRECIATION presents an unprecedented exhibition of photography and ink paintings by multidisciplinary artist and 2000 Nobel Laureate for Literature Gao Xingjian in this November. In the times when unavoidable natural disasters occurred constantly and followed by perpetual human-caused calamities, Gao believes that it is only within painting and dance lay the most primitive forms of expression, where comfort and hope inhibit. Gao Xingjian will make a rare appearance at the exhibition preview in conjunction with the launch of his highly anticipated pictorial book After the Flood with a complimentary DVD of the film at iPRECIATION.

Exhibiting to the public for the first time, the series of photographs titled “After the Flood” was taken during the making of his film under the same title. In the photographs, dancers and actors perform in front of the projections of his ink paintings. Combining the performers’ gestures and facial expressions against the painted backdrops in the photographs, Gao materialized emotions that words cannot describe. He brings the viewers to a contemplative space where normally, only be seen when one closes ones’ eyes. The tragic beauty of struggle and survival layers in his monochromatic compositions, constructing a visual language that is ambivalent, powerful and delicate at the same time.

Other than the 24 pieces of photographs, this exhibition will also feature Gao’s recent ink paintings on canvas. Through painting on canvas, Gao has achieved the 5 basic groups of black in traditional Chinese ink painting. Eliciting over 50 varying shades and textures, Gao introduces new ink and wash techniques. This multitude of blacks put in contrast with the white background allows him to bring forth the essence of light in his works. As discussed in the lecture given by Prof Jason C. Kuo in Cambridge Univerisy, Gao’s ink paintings demonstrate literati tradition dedicating to the realization of beauty through spontaneity. Invigorating a tradition that was once considered dead, Gao’s monochromatic paintings go beyond the expression of the spirit; between abstract and figurative, his paintings reflect his quiet observation and responses to the his surroundings.

Gao Xingjian’s eyes may be enquiring, and his tones may be critical; after all, through his distinct visual language, the quiet and succinct artist speaks more and louder without words.

-iPRECIATION

Image: © Gao Xingjian