As a contemporary artist operating in a world where the boundaries between nature and human-made environments are increasingly blurred, I often find myself introspecting on the paths treaded by previous visionaries and fellow contemporaries. As I reflect upon my work in this context, it is nearly impossible not to think about the ingenious shanshui montages of Yao Lu and Yang Yongliang, and how they starkly contrast and yet resonate with Lang Jingshan's layered compositions.
Lang Jingshan's works, rooted in a more traditional time, celebrate nature in its purity. His composite images emphasize serenity, aligning with the classical shanshui paintings. They bring forth an uninterrupted, harmonious relationship between humans and their surroundings, echoing a time when ecological disruptions were less evident.
On the other hand, Yao Lu and Yang Yongliang, through their intricate digital montages, have addressed the profound Anthropocene disruptions. They intertwine elements of rapid urbanization with the allure of classical Chinese landscapes, revealing the stark reality of environmental degradation. Their works do not just depict the contrast, but the integration of urban motifs with nature, suggesting a disturbing confluence rather than mere juxtaposition. In doing so, they unravel the disturbing truth about our dwindling relationship with nature, offering a critique of our times.
In drawing parallels with my own work, it's evident that while I, like Lang, might find solace and a source of reflection in nature, the pressing environmental issues highlighted by Yao and Yongliang cannot be ignored. Where Lang's works emanate a certain calm, Yao and Yongliang sound an alarm. But can there be a bridge, a synthesis of these approaches?
This brings me to my own journey. While Lang offered a peaceful coexistence with nature and Yao and Yongliang warn of our looming estrangement, perhaps my works suggest a re-engagement, a solution. Through my contemporary lens, I strive not only to highlight the challenges of our era but to propose a possible reconciliation. By engaging deeply with nature, by understanding its rhythms and intricacies, there's a chance for renewal. This is not just an aesthetic choice, but a call to action, an invitation to viewers to experience, respect, and work towards restoring the balance with the natural world.
While Lang Jingshan's works serve as a poignant reminder of a bygone era and Yao Lu & Yang Yongliang's montages starkly illuminate the issues of our times, my art hopes to offer a way forward. A path that not only acknowledges the challenges but also believes in the possibility of a harmonious coexistence between humanity and nature.
In expressing these reflections, there's a lingering concern that my optimism may come across as arrogance or naiveté. I recognize the weight and gravity of our environmental predicament and, in no way, intend to undermine its severity. Yet, in the face of such dire circumstances, perhaps even bordering on hopelessness, I believe that hope and proactive engagement are our most potent weapons. After all, without hope, there's a risk of inertia. And it's in this spirit of hopeful action, despite its potential naiveté, that I present my perspective. For it's not just about capturing and reflecting upon the world as artists, but also about inspiring change, no matter how incremental it may seem.