The Divine World

Curatorial statement by Guan Wei

Yang Xifa is a scholarly artist. He has a PhD degree and has been a university professor. He has a deep knowledge of Western and Chinese art histories. His artistic specialty lies in Chinese ink wash painting and contemporary elaborate-style painting. Having been commuting between China and Australia for many years, he has been greatly influenced by both Eastern and Western cultures that profoundly expanded his artistic vision. From the beginning of 2000, he took bold and innovative approaches to his art, creating Mirror Phantom and Capital Theory series.

With his return to Sydney in 2023, Yang embarked on a new creative journey, unveiling his latest series, The Divine World. In The Divine World, eastern wisdom flows like a stream, nourishing ancient myths, while Australia’s flora and fauna are reinterpreted through traditional ink techniques. The interplay of ink and paper breathes life into ancient deities and exotic creatures, transforming these stories into not only vivid depictions of mystical realms but also deep reflections on humanity’s relationship with nature. When myth encounters modern science and technology, the fusion of genetics and cells seems to revitalize these ancient tales. The advancements in modern science, with their exploration of microscopic worlds, resonate harmoniously with the legends of old. Through the portrayal of gene cells, Yang reinterprets these ancient myths in a contemporary context, offering a fresh perspective on timeless stories. This synthesis of traditional and modern elements preserves the essence of ink painting while showcasing the beauty of cutting-edge science. As a traditional Chinese art form, ink painting—through its unique brushstrokes and colours—effectively conveys complex and profound themes. In Yang’s work, the intersection of modern science and ancient myths becomes palpable, allowing us to appreciate both the depth of Eastern mythology and the limitless possibilities of contemporary science. The Divine World not only expands the boundaries of artistic expression but also invites us to explore new ways of thinking about the intersection of tradition and innovation.