Introduction
Beijing-based artist Li Xiaodong has been working on transforming paper to flexible three-dimensional sculpture. His paper sculptures were made by "gluing millions of paper together (20,000 sheets for a figure, from head to tone)" (Li, 2013) and then carve into the paper block with an electrical saw to create human busts, figure, and object that can move, stretch, spread, twist, contract.
Material
It is possible to say that paper is one of the oldest mediums in history and the most common materials we used every day. Conventionally it is used by cutting, folding, and carving in the art industry. Li Xiaodong began his interests on paper when he published books, which pushed him to understand the characteristics of paper, especially the durability. He then took the inspiration from traditional Chinese decoration known as paper gourds, which are glued layers of paper could be open and closed. He applied this structure to form his astonishing flexible structures.
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| Paper Gourd |
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| Detail of Li Hongbo's Work |
Analysis
I very much like how the artist has challenged our perceptions. Sculptures are usually static. However, each of his sculpture could be transformed into something completely different with unlimited possibilities. As Klein Sun (2014) commented, an investigation into expression through one of the oldest mediums in history, Li Hongbo invites viewers to experience paper and sculpture in a revolutionary and insightful new way. Utilizing his expert knowledge of paper’s natural strengths and weaknesses, the artist has transformed the media to stretch, twist, elongate and retract as if it were a giant slinky. Through this juxtaposition of playful mobility and a traditional aesthetic, Li Hongbo breathes a unique life into his works that stun and awes the viewer.
Reference
Sun, K. (2014). New Flexible Paper Sculptures by Li Hongbo. [online] Available at: http://www.thisiscolossal.com/2014/02/new-flexible-paper-sculptures-by-li-hongbo/ [Accessed 20 Oct. 2016].
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gttdbqX4SWA. (2013). [video] Stephy, Chung.
