White.Living World
Asia Art Center (Taipei) will present the Ju Ming: White · Living World exhibition from March 9 to April 28, 2024. This marks the third solo exhibition of the sculpture master Ju Ming at Asia Art Center, following Living World in 2022 and Taichi Arch in 2023. The exhibition will showcase large-scale copper sculptures from the “Living World Series” in white.
In the 1980s, Ju Ming embarked on his artistic journey in New York, marking the inception of his “Living World Series.” This series of works reflects his nuanced observations of the diverse characters in the mundane world. He has expanded his range of mediums beyond wood, incorporating materials such as clay, sponge, copper, and stainless steel into his repertoire. The utilization and variation of color are also prominently showcased in the “Living World Series,” across the various mediums employed by the artist.
Over the span of three decades, Ju Ming’s “Living World Series” has evolved from colorful depictions of humanity to profound philosophical contemplation. In 2007, Ju Ming initiated what is known as his “White Color Era.” Embracing the concept of “discarding,” he stripped away much of the color palette, shifting from its original vibrant hues to primarily white tones. This phase is regarded as his “White Color Practice,” aiming for a purer form of expression. Ju Ming believes that by relinquishing the explanatory and decorative aspects of color, one can return to the essence of sculptural art, leaving room for viewers’ imagination to roam freely.
The copper sculptures presented in this exhibition feature a base of white tones, adorned with simple shades of blue-green, black, and pink. The artist employs a block-like treatment of forms, while preserving the texture of the material, allowing the figures to emerge from within the material itself. This approach presents figures with a minimalist yet substantial appearance, enhancing their presence and character. Different attires and accessories serve not only to distinguish between ages and roles but also to enhance visual richness.
The figures depicted by Ju Ming are often dressed in modern attire, both men and women, seated or standing, with relaxed and cheerful expressions. They carry shopping bags and engage in conversations, portraying common urban scenes. Through the interactions between individuals and their surroundings, Ju Ming reveals his observations and insights into everyday details. Different poses create a dynamic interplay within the overall composition. Ju Ming excels at capturing those ordinary moments in life, distilling the essence of the human experience and presenting vibrant scenes of daily life.