In the path of contemporary art development, should we pursue innovation or adhere to traditional artistic tones? Ora-Ora raises this question: must artists immerse themselves in past experiences to learn? Or must each generation rediscover their own muses and draw immediate inspiration from the contemporary world? To explore the mindsets of these two types of creators and how they influence artistic creation, the gallery will soon hold an exhibition titled “Thesis/Antithesis,” revealing an important chapter in the intertwining of old and new in art development.
The first part of the exhibition invited two young Chinese artists, Huang Yulong and Chen Yingjie, both using themes and imagery from youth culture to explore the origins of today’s street landscape, allowing the vitality and potential of subcultures to be fully realized in today’s urban environment. They inject street vitality into gallery spaces, showcasing the cutting-edge dynamics of contemporary art creation.
Huang Yulong, a painter born in the 80s, graduated from the Ceramic Institute in Jingdezhen, Jiangxi Province, majoring in sculpture creation. He uses a variety of media and materials in his work, mixing crystal with traditional ceramics or bronze. Combining Eastern tradition, symbolism, and hip-hop aesthetics, Huang Yulong’s work breaks the gentle image of traditional ceramic culture. Through sculpture, he expresses the emotions he feels when listening to rap or street dancing, giving his work a streetwise and cool vibe.
The artistic style of the post-90s painter Chen Yingjie combines traditional Chinese ink painting with Western street graffiti art, creating a strong cultural contrast. His iconic series include “Breaking Loong” and “Stay Hungry,” inspired by Chinese dragons and lion dance symbols.
Spray paint, gold foil, and acrylic are all common mediums he uses. From his creative techniques, it can be seen that his painting style is more casual and free, but the images present a traditional Chinese ink painting style, leaving a deep impression on people.
The two young artists perfectly showcased the fusion of traditional and contemporary cultures, creating a unique style charm and demonstrating the passion and vitality of the younger generation. Feel free to visit the exhibition and appreciate how they combine a rebellious street style in traditional creative mediums.
“Main Topic/Counterpoint”
Date: February 24 to March 27, 2022
Time: Monday to Friday, 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM; Weekends, 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Location: Ora-Ora, 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Image source and learn more: Ora-Ora
