WHAT

Inspired by Hemingway’s idea of a false spring, or more accurately inspired against the idea of a false spring, Li Xinping created ‘Spring Garden’, which comprises sixteen oil paintings painted between 2004-2015. The false spring is the cycle of hope and disappointment that comes with the beginnings of spring (hope) and the tails of winter (disappointment). The exhibition is a metaphor for the safe haven for people from the false spring where they can be their happiest and escape from their problems. This idea is furthered by the scenes of people dancing and relaxing during the springtime. 

WHY

Despite being made prior to the pandemic, these paintings hold a strong importance now, in a time where the idea of a false spring is an everyday reality. The fluctuating pandemic has created a cycle of hope and disappointment for everyone and ‘Spring Garden’ provides a respite in this time of cyclical chaos. This exhibition is perfect for viewers looking for the serenity that spring brings and those who are hoping to escape the realities of our current world for even a short period of time.