Li Jingjing, MA

Artist Statement

This work reflects my deep understanding of the “Way of Life” (Tao) in traditional Chinese culture. The Kings Foundation School of Traditional Arts (KFSTA) is a diverse and friendly environment which has helped me realise the profound unity of life. My project is inspired by the combined experience of living in Nature in China – and rediscovering my own inner vitality – with studying the imaginative art style of the Chu-Han Dynasties.

The structure of the work is based on the “Triple-Ring Stone” of the Hongshan Culture. As the earliest archaeological site in China representing the worldview of “Round Heaven and Square Earth,” the three rings symbolise Heaven, Earth, and Humanity. These three exist simultaneously without hierarchy or order; they are independent yet at the same time part of a complete, unified whole.

Within these three rings, the cycle of life unfolds. Life begins with the intertwining of Fuxi and Nuwa, representing the vital forces of Yin and Yang. Just like the four seasons—spring birth, summer growth, autumn harvest, and winter storage—life moves in an endless circle. Even after death, the balance of Yin and Yang continues to regenerate. In the heavens, stars move eternally in their orbits, absorbing the “Light of love” from life and shining it back upon the world. All things dance together in this eternal rotation.

I chose ceramic as the medium for this project because it represents a perfect balance between reason and emotion. Just like the coexistence of Yin and Yang, it is also a collaboration of elements: water, fire, earth, air, and ether. I leave space for Nature to take over and let Her show in the work. For me, this natural and interactive flow is the true meaning of beauty.