4C Exhibition 2024 Q1 Self-Observation
The changes in society, culture, and history witness the physical turmoil and carry the flow of the spirit.
Words by Haolin Mai
Photos by Liyuang
In the group exhibition Self-Observation, which opened on January 13 at 4C Gallery in Los Angeles, the artists guide viewers through a profound journey of self-discovery. By centering on introspective observation, free from the disruptions of chaos and transformation, each work presents a serene acceptance of reality, akin to a canvas painted in true-to-life hues. Through subtle arrangements of self-reflection, these works allow us to transcend emotional depths, navigate the complexities of instinct, engage in the rhythmic dance of habitual patterns, and enter into a deep dialogue with the inner self.
The exhibition presents a series of profound and thought-provoking works that create an engaging viewing experience through the exploration of self-awareness and inner dialogue. Each piece acts as a mirror reflecting the inner world, guiding viewers to seek the essence of individual existence within a quiet atmosphere. The group exhibition constructs a space for examining inner emotions and concepts, prompting deep reflections on self-awareness and lived experiences. With its unique artistic perspectives and profound insights into human nature, this exhibition offers audiences an inspiring and exploratory journey through art.
40,149 Photos, 3,737 Videos
Visual artist Li Yu'ang's piece 40,149 Photos, 3,737 Videos deeply investigates the intricate interplay between modern technology and the evolving nature of human memory. Composed of meticulously processed screenshots, the work reflects the subtle erosion of temporal and spatial boundaries within the realm of memory. The deliberately blurred details in each image present a conscious challenge to the viewer's perception, encapsulating the broader social implications on the clarity of personal memory. Through these intentionally obscured fragments, the work constructs a series of personal narratives that resonate deeply with the artist, successfully eliciting an emotional response from the audience. This deliberate distortion serves as a visual metaphor, guiding viewers to reflect on the reliability and fluidity of their own memories. 40,149 Photos, 3,737 Videos transcends a mere visual experience, compressing time and space into a singular image that offers a contemplative experience beyond individual stories. The work probes a fundamental question: how clear can memory truly be? Through a unique artistic approach, the artist invites the audience to reflect on how memory is shaped and transformed in the digital age, illustrating the profound impact of technology on how we perceive and preserve the past.
Wang Yihui's oil paintings delve deeply into the emotional struggles and aspirations of women. Through her creative process, the artist examines and dissects her own inner self, viewing the act of creation as a therapeutic form of self-analysis. These works do not depict specific faces but rather encapsulate a broader range of emotions and cognitive states. Central themes include power dynamics, sensuality, innocence, violence, and tenderness, revealing profound and subtle insights. As the artist describes, each painting symbolizes a wound, a vivid stain born from internal irritation and decay. The canvas becomes a symbolic expression of liberation and transcendence, representing a departure from influential life experiences. These works masterfully capture the ebb and flow of emotions and their external manifestations, offering viewers a visual narrative that resonates with the artist's journey and modes of expression. Through her nuanced and deeply reflective oil paintings, Wang Yihui creates a thought-provoking artistic experience that explores women's emotions and existence within complex social contexts.
The Sighing Me, 3D Animation, 2023, Stills 2
Fish Head, Pouring Down, Hit Me More
Vigilance in Fluorescence
The Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster stands as a nuclear event of profound significance, raising unresolved questions and global concerns. In response to the ongoing threat of nuclear contamination and irresponsible nuclear waste management practices, Tang Yiying's team proposes a targeted solution: constructing a fluorescent pyramid at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant. This plan comprises two key components. First, a radioactive water treatment system is designed to convert tritium, a primary residue in radioactive water, into usable electric energy. This not only addresses the wastewater issue but also contributes to sustainable societal development. Second, the fluorescent water tower, activated by tritium radiation, serves as an ecological and environmental warning, encouraging reflection on the dangers of nuclear contamination. The design skillfully integrates functionality with artistic expression. The radioactive water treatment system offers a pragmatic solution with tangible benefits, while the fluorescent tower visually engages the audience, underscoring the dual objectives of environmental awareness and ecological consciousness. These works reflect the deep relationship between humanity and nature, highlighting thoughtful consideration of humanity's role within the ecosystem. Beyond addressing the aftermath of Fukushima Daiichi, the design serves as a powerful reminder of our responsibility toward nature and the necessity of achieving sustainable interaction. Tang Yiying's proposal is both a response to the nuclear disaster and a reflection on human responsibility and creative problem-solving in the face of environmental challenges.
Li Shuo’s video series showcases an in-depth exploration of avant-garde art forms, seamlessly blending performance art, installation, and video to create a surreal, fantastical realm for the audience. Her works transcend mere aestheticism, delving into profound societal issues.
The Garden of Eden examines and challenges deeply ingrained traditional gender norms within society. Sawing explores power dynamics between oppressors and the exploited, offering a sharp critique of social structures. These images capture the inherent tension and imbalance in such relationships, provoking thought on broader sociopolitical concerns. Flirt reveals the ambiguous nature of human relationships, peeling back the layers of complexity within them.
Li Shuo skillfully employs multimedia elements to capture the intricate connections between individuals, inviting viewers to reflect on the subtle differences and complexities inherent in social dynamics. These avant-garde visuals expose the complex interplay between society and human nature. Through striking visual lenses, the absurdity embedded in each work evokes deep introspection, encouraging viewers to confront their own assumptions and biases.
The Garden of Eden
The Blossom of Dawn
曙光绽放系列
The Blossom of Dawn series draws inspiration from Chenyu Huang’s encounters with sunrises and sunsets across the globe. Through meticulous artistic creation, the artist captures these awe-inspiring moments, guiding viewers to immerse themselves in the captivating energy of dawn and dusk. Huang skillfully employs light and shadow to construct profound visual metaphors, evoking deep reflections on the inherent dualities and beauty of life. The works not only build a visual narrative but also create a warm, tranquil space that stirs the romantic sentiments within the audience. Blossom of Dawn serves as both a series and a beacon of artistic exploration, encouraging viewers to find solace in the start of a new day and to explore the endless possibilities it holds.
Inspired by architecture, Tao Guanyu uses 3D-printed sculptures to express his unique understanding of space. His work Poché offers a distinctive interpretation of the concept of "infill," exploring the hidden nature of intermediate spaces and prompting viewers to consider the latent possibilities within these unseen boundaries. As a visual cue, Poché encourages viewers to reconsider the physical structures and metaphorical presences that often linger on the periphery of perception, unnoticed or overlooked. The work evokes reflection on the intricate details of hidden spaces, sparking a broader desire to contemplate the overlooked aspects of our physical surroundings. Through a continual reconstruction of perspectives, the artist leads viewers toward a deeper connection with the invisible dimensions of their environment.
Poché
City Chaos
Tang Zhiwen’s City Chaos draws from her immersive experiences in American cities. The work profoundly captures the essence of urban life, depicting architectural marvels, intricate traffic systems, cultural diversity, and social trends. The artist conveys the vitality and complexity of contemporary urban existence, particularly in an era marked by significant social divides. The piece illustrates vivid scenes of intersecting elements, encapsulating the diversity of urban dynamics. In this chaotic time, city dwellers emerge as the primary figures affected by societal turbulence, having lost their once-stable living environments. The work poignantly communicates their struggles, reflecting the hardships of seeking stability amidst social upheaval. City Chaos offers a deep commentary on the challenges faced by individuals in complex urban settings, inviting viewers to engage in profound contemplation through its depiction of intricate contradictions.
The performance art of Mao Chenhui and Jiang Nanyu transcends traditional media boundaries, transporting the audience into a realm of ever-changing expression. Each performance offers a novel experience, with Jiang Nanyu’s intentional or seemingly spontaneous directions guiding Mao Chenhui as she interacts with the audience, objects, or space, gradually unfolding to produce unique and unpredictable artistic results. The audience, as dynamic witnesses, is immersed in the emotions conveyed by the performers. Mao Chenhui provides a rich and immersive emotional journey through diverse media and methods, leaving a profound and lasting spiritual impact on the viewers.
毛晨慧与姜南羽，表演艺术
In the realm of art, the pursuit of self-discovery transcends cultural boundaries. The artist's diverse works, meticulously explored through various media, stand as powerful embodiments of a universal quest. Each piece serves as a carefully constructed canvas, vividly presenting a serene acceptance of reality through the lens of self-observation and profound expression. The 4C Gallery is honored to serve as a platform for showcasing and disseminating contemporary Chinese art and culture, nurturing emerging Chinese artists by providing a space for their work and artistic growth. The gallery’s commitment to supporting deep artistic exploration and practice is reflected not only in offering a venue for Chinese artists to exhibit and engage but also in continuously fostering their artistic development. As the gallery tirelessly advocates such artistic endeavors, it is dedicated to promoting cross-cultural dialogue and advancing a deeper understanding of human experience through the universal language of art.
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