Roots of Guo Jian (郭健)
2021
synthetic polymer on canvas, black framed,
(H) 84 x (W) 77 x (D) 3.5 cm
More on Guo Jian
2021
synthetic polymer on canvas, black framed,
(H) 84 x (W) 77 x (D) 3.5 cm
More on Guo Jian
Artist Statement
I had the privilege of spending time with contemporary artist, Guo Jian 郭健. As migrants to Australia, both Guo and I recount our profound and challenging experiences of personal and cultural adaptation. The word 扎根 (zhāgēn), roughly meaning “to take root”, verbalises this adaptation—with plants taking root in new soil, growing downward for sustenance to support their positions. The underground roots are far more paramount than the ones above ground, elongating and navigating its reach to survive. The portrait transpired the visual effects of “扎根” into the soil of Australia.
I had the privilege of spending time with contemporary artist, Guo Jian 郭健. As migrants to Australia, both Guo and I recount our profound and challenging experiences of personal and cultural adaptation. The word 扎根 (zhāgēn), roughly meaning “to take root”, verbalises this adaptation—with plants taking root in new soil, growing downward for sustenance to support their positions. The underground roots are far more paramount than the ones above ground, elongating and navigating its reach to survive. The portrait transpired the visual effects of “扎根” into the soil of Australia.