"Chongming" (Earth Lens 006) - Artist Statement + Photos [2021]

hes⚡️ — Fri, 07 Feb 2025 17:04:20 GMT

Tree branches. 4'8" circle. [Chongming Island, China. 2021]

Introduction

Tucked into a quiet forest park on Chongming Island, Chongming frames a view of a canal and a small alluvial landform that mirrors the island itself. This lens reflects the constant interplay of land and water, inviting viewers to contemplate the delicate balance of nature and the forces that shape it.

Site & Placement

The lens is hidden along a forest path, directing attention to the canal’s subtle currents and the land it divides. The bench, situated 12 feet from the lens, encourages visitors to pause and immerse themselves in the tranquil rhythm of the scene.

Impermanence & Integration

As an alluvial island shaped by shifting waters, Chongming is a fitting location for this ephemeral lens. Constructed from branches, the lens will eventually return to the land, echoing the natural processes that formed the island and continue to shape it.

Reflection

Chongming offers a meditative space to reflect on the impermanence of land and the forces that transform it. The work’s fleeting existence underscores the beauty of change, inviting viewers to appreciate the subtle, ongoing dance of nature.

Photos

More from the 'Earth Lens' Series:

Earth Lens Series: Artist Statement + List of Works

"Looking Glass" (Earth Lens 001)

"Folsom" (Earth Lens 002)

"Sanctuary" (Earth Lens 003)

"Platte" (Earth Lens 004)

"Grandfather" (Earth Lens 005)

More from Hes

All images are credit of Hes, but you are free to download and use for any purpose. If you find joy from my art, please feel free to send a zap. Enjoy life on a Bitcoin standard.

"Grandfather" (Earth Lens 005) - Artist Statement + Photos [2020]

hes⚡️ — Fri, 07 Feb 2025 07:00:00 GMT

Tree branches, driftwood coconut. 5'7" teardrop. [Dawei, Myanmar. 2020]

Introduction

Situated on Myanmar’s Grandfather Beach, this lens captures the dramatic shape of a steep, rocky hill that mirrors the arduous road leading to this remote location. Grandfather invites viewers to reflect on the connection between journey and destination, highlighting the tension and beauty of paths less traveled.

Site & Placement

The lens is positioned at the west end of the beach, focusing on the sharp hill rising above the shoreline. Its teardrop shape accentuates the rocky prominence, emphasizing its similarity to the road that winds toward the beach. A bench, placed 12 feet away, provides a place for viewers to absorb the rugged beauty of the scene.

Impermanence & Integration

Crafted from driftwood, branches, and stone, Grandfather is a fleeting presence in this timeless landscape. Its brief existence reflects the challenges and ephemerality of the journey it highlights, blending into the environment as it gradually succumbs to the elements.

Reflection

Grandfather invites viewers to consider the parallels between the physical journey to reach the beach and life’s broader paths. It stands as a reminder that even the most challenging routes can lead to moments of profound beauty.

Photos

More from the 'Earth Lens' Series:

Earth Lens Series: Artist Statement + List of Works

"Looking Glass" (Earth Lens 001)

"Folsom" (Earth Lens 002)

"Sanctuary" (Earth Lens 003)

"Platte" (Earth Lens 004)

COMING SOON: "Chongming" (Earth Lens 006)

More from Hes

All images are credit of Hes, but you are free to download and use for any purpose. If you find joy from my art, please feel free to send a zap. Enjoy life on a Bitcoin standard.

hes ⚡️

"Chongming" (Earth Lens 006) - Artist Statement + Photos [2021]

Introduction

Site & Placement

Impermanence & Integration

Reflection

Photos

More from the 'Earth Lens' Series:

More from Hes

"Grandfather" (Earth Lens 005) - Artist Statement + Photos [2020]

Introduction

Site & Placement

Impermanence & Integration

Reflection

Photos

More from the 'Earth Lens' Series:

More from Hes