Tu(Rabit)

100*120cm, 2023

The oil painting is a striking integration of Chinese cultural elements with Western painting techniques. The central subject is the rabbit, one of the twelve animals from the Chinese zodiac, intertwined with the ancient Chinese script for rabbit, known as the oracle bone script (甲骨文).

Niu has skillfully woven these Eastern symbols with Western abstract expressionist elements, creating a visually compelling narrative. The rabbit's form, while not immediately apparent due to the abstract nature of the painting, can be discerned through the curvilinear shapes and soft, rounded forms that evoke the essence of the creature's gentle and serene disposition.

These shapes are harmoniously integrated with the angular and more rigid forms of the oracle bone script, which serves as a historical anchor, grounding the painting in rich cultural heritage. Western painting techniques are evident in the bold brushstrokes and the rich layering of colors, which give the painting depth and texture. The color palette is vibrant and diverse, with each hue contributing to a complex tapestry that captures the viewer's eye and invites deeper contemplation. The splashes of red and blue, along with the earthy browns and muted purples, create a dynamic tension within the canvas, reflecting the fusion of cultures. The abstract expressionist approach allows for a fluid interpretation of form and space, where the viewer's experience can shift and change with each viewing. The interplay between the abstract and the figurative, the old and the new, the East and the West, challenges the viewer to find their own meaning within the layers of paint and symbolism.

This piece can be seen as a celebration of the synthesis of different artistic traditions and the dialogue between history and modernity. It's a testament to the universal language of art, transcending cultural boundaries and creating a shared space for diverse expressions and ideas.