Soul

Li Chen's Soul transforms what is invisible to the eye into a suggestive anthropomorphic form. Breathing the much-needed strength into its viewer, this work embodies both spirituality and transcendence—the essence of qi. Indeed, if the external world, as the artist has observed, only constantly causes distress to our mind, his work presents to us a renewable source of energy that guards our heart. In addition to its disproportionately plump feet and cocoonshaped bodies, this sculpture is also distinguished by the coy expressions of its two figures. Much like that of a child, their faces propel the viewer to reunite with their inner peace. But the two faces also exhibit contrasting elements that generate different emotive responses: Lurking beneath the compassionate expression of the standing figure with the eyes closed is its generosity of great spirits; whereas the baby-like figure above with its other-worldly smile is imbued with a sense of innocence that transcends our physical world. Through this voluptuously endearing work, Li Chen guides the viewer into his spiritual realm—one that is deeply rooted in the timeless wisdom from Eastern philosophy.