In this captivating interview, we delve into the world of Lee Ufan, a renowned artist, philosopher, and thinker, as he reflects on his remarkable journey spanning decades and continents. Ufan's artistic evolution, deeply rooted in his Asian heritage yet profoundly influenced by Western modernism, offers a unique perspective on the interplay between culture, identity, and artistic expression.
The Evolution of Lee Ufan's Artistic Stance
Lee Ufan's artistic journey began in the late 1960s, a period of social and political upheaval, with his involvement in the Mono-ha movement in Japan. This loose collective of artists, including Ufan, challenged the established boundaries between art and the world, reflecting the socio-political climate of the time. Ufan's early works, such as his stone-dropping performances, were violent and destructive, carrying an implicit political message.
However, Ufan's artistic practice evolved beyond this initial denial and destruction. He began to explore the concept of time and the temporal process in his paintings, drawing on his childhood calligraphy training. By holding his breath and exhaling during brushstrokes, Ufan created a ritualistic process that connected his art to the biological act of breathing, a universal human experience.
This evolution in Ufan's work is a fascinating reflection of his personal growth and his desire to move beyond the constraints of a specific cultural identity. He explains, "Rather than insisting on my own identity and upbringing, I attach great importance to exchanges and dialogues with others outside of myself."
Breaking Conventions and Embracing Chaos
In the 1980s, Ufan's artistic practice took a tumultuous turn with the creation of his "From Winds" and "With Winds" paintings. Feeling constrained by the order and system he had imposed on his work, Ufan sought to break free, bringing in the "wind from outside" to create a chaotic, rough look. This series marked a significant shift in his artistic expression, leading him to explore the untouched and unpainted areas of the canvas.
Ufan's more recent "Dialogue" paintings continue this exploration of absence and presence. He explains, "What is not there matters as much as what is." By reducing the amount of paint and focusing on the untouched canvas, Ufan creates a new form of expression that goes beyond his own ego and connects with a larger, universal dimension.
The Role of Location and In-Situ Art
Ufan's approach to art is deeply connected to the concept of in-situ art, where the artwork is created and displayed in a specific location, often with a direct relationship to the space and its surroundings. His new sculpture for Venice, "Sky Road," is a prime example of this, with two large stones resting on mirror-polished stainless steel plates, reflecting the surrounding environment and inviting viewers to connect with nature and space.
Ufan believes that art should invite people to these places, encouraging self-reflection and questioning. He says, "People need to come to the site and by the direct experience of looking at the artworks then to think about and question themselves."
The Power of Art and the Human Experience
As Ufan reflects on his half-century career, he remains optimistic about the power of art to change the world. While the Mono-ha movement initially embraced denial and destruction, Ufan's artistic practice has evolved towards a more positive and affirmative approach. He emphasizes the importance of ambiguity and the constant questioning of artistic boundaries.
Ufan's work, with its focus on process and the human experience, stands in stark contrast to the instant gratification and lack of process associated with AI. He believes that humans need to experience, go through processes, and spend time to truly understand their own lives and the power of living. This is the message he hopes to convey through his art.
In conclusion, Lee Ufan's artistic journey is a testament to the power of personal growth, cultural exchange, and the human experience. His work invites us to reflect on our own lives, our connection to the world, and the potential for art to inspire and transform.
