In the Wake of Stillness

Wang Sai, born in 1991, currently serves at the Hebei Academy of Fine Arts. He is a National Second-Class Artist (Associate Professor), a member of the China Calligraphers Association, a council member of the Zhoukou Non-Party Calligraphy and Painting Institute, and an assistant to Professor Li Qiang at the China National Academy of Painting. He also holds the positions of Vice President and Secretary-General of the Youth Calligraphy and Seal Engraving Institute.

His works have received multiple accolades, including:
• Third Prize in the “Agricultural Bank Cup” First China TV Calligraphy Competition (National Level);
• Selected for the “Great Love Mazu” First Chinese Mazu Cultural Calligraphy and Seal Engraving Exhibition, organized by the China Calligraphers Association (National Level, no ranking awards set);
• Silver Prize in the First Hebei Youth Calligraphy and Painting Exhibition, organized by Hebei Provincial Department of Culture (Provincial Level);
• Selected for “Carrying Forward the Legacy – Henan Cursive Script Research Exhibition”, organized by Henan Calligraphers Association (Provincial Level);
• Selected for the National Exhibition of Outstanding Young and Middle-aged Calligraphers, organized by Gansu Calligraphers Association (Provincial Level).

His works are held in the collections of the Zhoukou Art Museum, the Pingdingshan Art Museum (Henan Province), and the Zibo Art Museum (Shandong Province).

His academic research has been published in journals such as Chinese Calligraphy (CSSCI) and Art Panorama (CSSCI).

 

Medium: paper
Dimensions: 85cm*60cm

Artist Statement:

This abstract painting is a deep reflection on the psychological state of individuals in modern society. The chaotic interplay of brushstrokes and colors mirrors the confusion and entrapment within the contemporary human psyche. As the processes of information and globalization accelerate, individuals are increasingly confronted with anxiety and pressure that cannot be internally reconciled. Through intense color clashes and intricate lines, the artwork expresses this mental struggle.

The dark brushstrokes and somber tones convey a sense of self-imposed pressure and spiritual exhaustion, while also suggesting the presence of invisible violence within societal structures. Occasional bursts of vivid color symbolize emotional yearning and the struggle for vitality amid the monotony of daily life. These stark contrasts and sudden eruptions of line and color reflect the internal conflict and tension between self-expression and external expectations.

At the same time, the areas of negative space in the painting serve as a contemplation of society’s relentless pursuit of efficiency. In contrast to that pursuit, these blank areas invite the viewer to seek inner stillness. They evoke a longing for a lifestyle governed by non-action and balance—a search for peace and self-liberation in a world overwhelmed by restlessness and pressure.

 

Medium: paper
Dimensions: 85cm*60cm

Artist Statement:

This abstract painting is a deep reflection on the psychological state of individuals in modern society. The chaotic interplay of brushstrokes and colors mirrors the confusion and entrapment within the contemporary human psyche. As the processes of information and globalization accelerate, individuals are increasingly confronted with anxiety and pressure that cannot be internally reconciled. Through intense color clashes and intricate lines, the artwork expresses this mental struggle.

The dark brushstrokes and somber tones convey a sense of self-imposed pressure and spiritual exhaustion, while also suggesting the presence of invisible violence within societal structures. Occasional bursts of vivid color symbolize emotional yearning and the struggle for vitality amid the monotony of daily life. These stark contrasts and sudden eruptions of line and color reflect the internal conflict and tension between self-expression and external expectations.

At the same time, the areas of negative space in the painting serve as a contemplation of society’s relentless pursuit of efficiency. In contrast to that pursuit, these blank areas invite the viewer to seek inner stillness. They evoke a longing for a lifestyle governed by non-action and balance—a search for peace and self-liberation in a world overwhelmed by restlessness and pressure.

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