Some months ago, I introduced initial experiments, reinterpreting Gong Bi and Run…
Some months ago, I introduced initial experiments, reinterpreting Gong Bi and Run Miao painting/ink techniques through photography, and I've since refined this approach. The latest images embody a deeper exploration of these traditional ShanShui painting methods. The Gong Bi style, characterized by its intricate and layered details, is reflected through a focused depth of field that accentuates the textures and nuances of the subjects. This methodical approach draws the observer into the subtleties of each photograph.
In contrast, the Run Miao technique’s essence is conveyed by the intentional use of soft focus and blurred outlines, akin to the fluid and organic spread of ink on rice paper. This fusion within the photographic medium blurs the lines between the ancient art of Chinese painting and the contemporary realm of photography.
These new works were made at the Clay Cliffs are a notable geological formation located near the town of Omarama on the South Island of New Zealand. They are distinctive for their tall pinnacles and narrow ravines, which have been formed by the erosion of gravel and silt deposited by ancient glaciers.
As with all the work in this series the images endeavour to encapsulate not only the visual elements within the frame but also the intangible aura that is sensed or experienced. They seek to transcend beyond mere representation to capture the underlying essence and the emotive resonance that the subject imparts.
