Level up - Exhibition opening - Metaphorical Wings by Qing Zhang

LEVEL UP is series of contemporary community gallery spaces spread across Wyndham. These spaces have been developed to provide emerging artists with an opportunity to showcase their work and support their transition into professional practice.

Join the artist to celebrate the opening of this exhibition and to present these new artworks to the world. This is a catered event and RSVPs are appreciated.

Metaphorical Wings by Qing Zhang

The works in this exhibition can be divided into two groups. Firstly, I repeatedly paint the same bird, giving them different expressions and body language, rather than depicting a specific real scene. This is a metaphor. Each bird carries my desire to express myself, as if I am encountering different versions of myself. Each completed bird guides me on how to paint the next one. Their forms are like vectors full of energy, and I hope to create a flow of energy on paper through them. Out of the 10 pieces exhibited, 7 were completed in this manner. The other 3 pieces focus on surreal designs, stemming more from my imagination. These works explore the darker aspects of the self, such as the pain of endlessly wandering in self-doubt, while also expressing the desire to break free from these constraints. These 3 pieces emphasize the struggle within these bounds and the yearning for freedom. One piece featuring a mirror, represents my contemplation on the concept of "perception."

 
“My creative motivation stems from a focus on the inner self. To me, the inner self is a complex existence—a world often unseen, a topic intentionally or unintentionally avoided in daily life, and even contemplating it carries certain negative connotations. Confronting the inner self requires great courage. However, I believe it is deeply rooted in our essence, profoundly influencing our lives and affecting the development of every event. I use watercolour and paper as my medium to explore my inner self through painting, contemplating existence. This practice is also a form of mindfulness. I hope my works reflect my pursuit of self-awareness, acceptance, and affirmation, and have a positive impact on others. Because I believe that, on some level, we are deeply connected, like two trees whose roots are entwined in the same land.”

Image Credit – Qing Zhang as part of exhibition