Calligraphy / Words / Gesture / Sign

Chen Li has rightfully earned her place in the long line of this fascinating tradition of oriental writing. Her adept juxtaposition of words, letters and images see the former transformed almost beyond recognition into pure signs, in an evocative extension of gesture. It is not by chance that she has sought inspiration in three great poets from the West, thus engendering a cross-continental dialogue and at once creating synergies that grow naturally in the field of artistic expression. The backbone of Chen Li’s work is the technical expertise that guides her gestures when creating space; this harmonises with her desire to communicate. Sometimes the individual words fade and disappear, testifying to the expressive dynamics that combine to form a symphony of colours charged with thoughts and sentiments. Just as with Giacomo Leopardi’s famous lirica, we are faced with a ‘blissful’ castaway. At the same time, we are reminded of Borges’ wonderful verses, where art is revealed through enigmas, drawing the viewer into a game of recollections and suggestions that come together in a harmonious denouement of forms and chromatic temperatures.