WHAT
Peng Jian rose to prominence through his geometric ink-on-paper interpretations of the Chinese architectural teachings of jiehua. In this newest exhibition by the Hangzhou-based artist, works from ‘Harmony’, ‘Still Life’, ‘Phantom in the Bottle’, and ‘Growing’ series are presented. Each of the series is made up of images in a variety of twists and turns, to be interpreted both metaphorically and literally. Peng uses curving lines and straights to represent tumultuous as well as other volatile emotions. Known for his geometric ink art interpretations of Chinese architecture, he has now evolved into sharing his own themes onto canvas.

WHY
Peng Jian’s exploration of twists and turns is not only limited to lines and curves, but also involves social order, the hidden tension between objects, and the overlap between different situations. His works are not completely figurative, but symbolic, ‘I define different objects within a limited space, seeking meaning in restrained symbolism.’ Each of the works from the different series featured in this exhibition assess the relationship between objects and images. Through these depictions, viewers get a chance to reassess their own relationships with objects and to ponder the environments these objects exist in. Furthermore, this exhibition is perfect for those who appreciate jiehua, a technique for which the artist is famous.