PRINTCatalogue Note:
Owing to the gradual recovery of Europe after the destruction of World War Two, the art movement centering on New York became a sanctuary where artists from all over the world eagerly flocked. Many overseas Chinese artists could be seen in the art circle where abstract expressionism prevailed at that time in America and Walasse Ting was one of them. After moving to New York in 1958, Ting had a significant shift in his art creations. He changed from abstract painting influenced by the avant-garde group CoBrA to abstract expressive techniques which filled his canvas with various bright colors through dripping and splashing of paints. From then on, this uniquely colorful style became one of the most discernible and indispensable elements in Ting’s later creations.
Beginning in the 1970s, women – arguably Ting’s greatest interest in life – became a frequent source of inspiration and a persistent theme in his work. During the 1970s, and reaching its peak in the 1980s, this unique artistic influence became the artist’s personal signature. In this particular piece, Spring Sunshine, two women wearing light makeup – each partially hidden behind folding fans in their hands – gaze dreamily ahead with expressive eyes. Although their pretty faces are not fully revealed, Ting’s rich color palette and bold splashes clearly highlight the immense beauty of the two women. Like two charming and alluring red flowers in full bloom on a warm spring afternoon, these two beauties are shy but brimming with confidence. Vigorous and unrestrained and yet romantic and affectionate, Ting called himself the “butterfly gangster” and left behind a trail of numerous creations centered on women. Some are depicted as hot and fiery; other times, his subjects are as cool and reserved as water in a still lake. In either case, Ting consistently reveals his limitless passion by embracing each scene from his journey through life with genuine love and affection. Along the way, he transformed his passion into poignant, strongly expressive works of art that provide a glimpse into his lifelong love – some might even say obsession – with women.
Beginning in the 1970s, women – arguably Ting’s greatest interest in life – became a frequent source of inspiration and a persistent theme in his work. During the 1970s, and reaching its peak in the 1980s, this unique artistic influence became the artist’s personal signature. In this particular piece, Spring Sunshine, two women wearing light makeup – each partially hidden behind folding fans in their hands – gaze dreamily ahead with expressive eyes. Although their pretty faces are not fully revealed, Ting’s rich color palette and bold splashes clearly highlight the immense beauty of the two women. Like two charming and alluring red flowers in full bloom on a warm spring afternoon, these two beauties are shy but brimming with confidence. Vigorous and unrestrained and yet romantic and affectionate, Ting called himself the “butterfly gangster” and left behind a trail of numerous creations centered on women. Some are depicted as hot and fiery; other times, his subjects are as cool and reserved as water in a still lake. In either case, Ting consistently reveals his limitless passion by embracing each scene from his journey through life with genuine love and affection. Along the way, he transformed his passion into poignant, strongly expressive works of art that provide a glimpse into his lifelong love – some might even say obsession – with women.