Eslite Gallery is pleased to present Wu Tung-Lung from 10 October–8 November 2020, featuring the artist's signature 'Symbol' series as well as the latest 'Ambiguous Dimensions' series. An on-going exploration for two decades, the 'Symbol' series on view will provide a glimpse of Wu Tung-Lung's continual visual explorations in spatial depths and imaginary spaces, while the 'Ambiguous Dimensions' series developed from Wu's residency experience in Germany in 2019 reveal a new variation in his interpretation of simple geometric forms.

'If an artist's creativity is steady and calm, I do not need to burst into flames.' Wu Tung-Lung's practice, as stated in a past interview, has always been a rational and patient one. He begins by selecting a raw canvas, and priming it thoroughly with gelatin on a wood frame. Gesso is repeatedly applied on the primed surface until forming a solid foundation while cultivating a handmade texture. The second phase involves formulating the background with oil colours, followed by covering the entire work using tape. Lines or symbols are then carved out for further colour treatment. Finally the work unveils in its entirety when the tape is peeled off.

The first half of Wu Tung-Lung's process entails traditional and meticulous craftsmanship, and the second half is to render subdued oil colours and simple forms into quiet, abstract imagery. As such, Wu's unique artistry, colours and forms offer a starting point for our reading. Texture is imperative, 'so that the viewer can perceive nuances in the paintings in dim or brightly-lit places, up close or from a distance.' Known for his minimalist style, Wu employs a binary approach to allow dual colour tones to provide context for moods and clues, which not only reveal his personal sentiment or thoughts at the time but also instinctively awaken the viewers' sensory response. For instances, metallic gray may infer the indifferent landscape of an industrial city; ocre can suggest masculinity and vigour; or deep green brings to mind the moisture and smell of a mossy forest. The symmetric, voluminous forms, on the other hand, be it colour lines or a standalone symbol, provide anchor and balance to our whims.

'Perhaps in the future humans will evolve to converse solely by telepathy, then all superfluous chatters can be omitted,' once Wu Tung-Lung imagined a world where heart and mind communicate better than words. His paintings affect us exactly in such a way: using simplest elements to catch our eyes, then slowly simmer to summon our deepest memories and sensual experiences.

Press release courtesy Eslite Gallery.