Lot Essay
Sakyamuni (Lot 1436) is a sculpture that illustrates Li Chen's unique visual language of the 'well-rounded harmony'. In The Style of Li Chen's Art essay by Chia Chi Jason Wang, he mentioned: "Li Chen's sculptural works have represented vividly the beauty of well-rounded harmony, which is not only a legacy of Chinese spiritual and philosophical tradition but also an embodiment of Li Chen's personal belief, artistic temperament, and aesthetic choice. Therefore, from this day on, 'well-rounded harmony' can be properly described as the style of Li Chen's art". Created in 2002 in addition to his series, Spiritual Journey Through the Great Ether, the reflective silver of Clear Soul (Lot 1437) suggest a pureness of the immaculate soul. The shine and energy of the piece reflected against the black, exhibits a harmonious space of magnificence in reaching 'celestial consciousness.' The contrasting of light and dark is an element taken from Chinese myths. The title of the work connotes the notion of a soul free from desires, inhabiting a life without possession. To live in pursuit of nature is to enjoy life with upmost sincerity. Li's works is best appreciated for his 'trueness' which coincidentally is the meaning of his last name, the Chinese word of Chen means 'true.' The rotund figure in his work receives smiles from viewers as it projects a harmony aligned with Buddhist philosophy that resonates an appreciation for natural beauty beyond time and space.