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P004 → Oli Li Camberwell MA: Fine Art Drawing Chronicles Fan
Contents
Artist Statement:
I am a creator of a unique blend of dark humour and delicate childhood experience,
a there- year- old kid in the art world.
My artworks encompass a diverse range of media, including drawings, sculptures, and installations, all of which delve deeply into intricate themes. One of my central ideas revolves around the delicate equilibrium between the inner and outer worlds. My art explores the human pursuit of happiness, unearthing profound explorations of hedonism, cultural identity, and an unwavering love for nature.
I employ multiple media and interdisciplinary approaches in my artworks. Each piece offers a distinct experience. Some, under the moonlight, transport the viewer into an immersive world of mysterious purple hues, and blissful tranquilly. Others exude a raw and provocative sexuality, embracing kinkiness and fetish undertones akin to the aftermath of a wild party. My creations can also be seen as symbolic, laden with ominous omens that spark contemplation.
A t the heart of my creations lies a duality of happiness and pain, delivered through a surrealistic lens. With a playful and humorous touch, my art embodies the current human pursuit of happiness and the blissful tranquillity that follows when the inner and outer worlds find equilibrium. The unique characteristics and textures of the materials themselves are harnessed skillfully. To explore them to the point that they almost like me. Using things like Laser Cutter, I take my material to its limits so it almost decomposes and breaks, so revealing it’s fragility, where they start to decompose and almost destroy. Allowing the audience to embark on a figurative tightrope walk, clutching a balance pole, symbolizing the harmonious dance of existence.
1. Can you identify a moment during the Camberwell MA Drawing journey, where your relationship to drawing either shifted or became clear in terms of a specific research practice focussed on drawing?
I began by focusing on the decline in natural fertility in Confucian cultures (mainly China, Japan, and Korea), which has resulted in babies becoming a luxury. I found, from speaking to peers, that they enjoy the present and their happiness and most people are not seeking to get married and have children. This led to me thinking about "hedonism" which became the pivotal moment. My research identified several understandings of hedonism and I decided to explore the idea of ‘balanced hedonism', which related to me. I wrote about types of hedonism and how hedonism was connected to various social phenomena. This caused me to reflect on mortality and apathy, and in the Spring miniatures exhibition I included pieces that dealt with the death. I am now thinking about how to extend this work. I'm considering creating art using human senses, but because of my strong visual sensitivity, I also want to create art with various three-dimensional expressions to elaborate the original drawing's possibilities. I utilise laser engraving regularly and one possibility is to think about how to build on this. For example, the smell of burned wood released by the laser cutter after burning is also a "hedonistic" nod to the senses. A second method is to stop avoiding my strength - digital drawing. I can combine digital drawing with laster cutting. And I can use my different expertise and media to find a connection with drawing. In the Summer Show, I used a variety of media, such as LED lights, laser cutters, leather, discarded chairs, and wood. This expanded field of drawing provides a rich potential for exploring my themes.
2. What is drawing research within your practice?
Drawing research is a multidisciplinary field that explores the act of drawing, its processes, and its outcomes from various perspectives. It encompasses both artistic and scientific approaches and can be found in fields such as art, design, psychology, education, and even technology. In drawing, I study the relationship between themes and materials. I use painting methods and media as the basic logic to create the possibility of painting, allowing painting to blend into everything and bring everyone a different experience.
What is Hedonism？
Hedonism is an ethical and philosophical perspective that emphasizes individual happiness, pleasure, and enjoyment as the highest value and ultimate goal. This theory originates from the teachings of the ancient Greek philosopher Epicurus, who believed that happiness is the highest goal of life and that happiness and satisfaction are the means to pursue happiness. In hedonism, personal happiness and satisfaction are considered to be the centre of life, and personal self-realization and joy are the highest motivations for human existence. This theory emphasizes the pursuit of happiness and the avoidance of pain, believing that people should pursue their pleasure and satisfaction while trying to avoid pain and unhappiness. However, different hedonists have different perspectives and priorities. Some people focus more on short-term happiness, while others focus more on long-term happiness. In addition, some hedonists believe that personal happiness should be coordinated with the happiness of others and social interests, rather than purely pursuing their pleasure. It is important to note that hedonism is not synonymous with immoderate indulgence and excessive pursuit of personal pleasure. Many hedonists believe that lasting joy and happiness come from reasonable self-discipline, good interpersonal relationships, care for others, and social responsibility. Therefore, rationality and balance are important in practice. , In summary, hedonism is a moral and philosophical perspective that believes that personal happiness and joy are the highest value and ultimate goal. However, the specific theory and practice will vary among different hedonists. What I am investigating and pursuing here is ‘Explore and balancing your hedonism’ The hedonism I advocate is closer to exploring your true self, balancing your inner desires, and pursuing your true happiness. I prefer to call it exploration and balanced hedonism.
Oli Li Camberwell MA: Fine Art Drawing Chronicles Fan, 2023, MDF, Pi paper, South Asia Fiber Handmade Paper, 75*75cm