The contemporary master of colour Zhuang Hong Yi returns to HOFA gallery this March with a solo exhibition 'Essence'. This body of works created during a time of uncertainty and global unrest is concerned with reflection, meditation and rebirth. Here the chinese artist is addressing the eternal and the ever-changing through the symbolism of the flower. This exhibition reflects on the passing of time and beauty within nature in order to look forward to a new beginning.

'Essence' is an abstract contemporary take on escapism, dwelling not on pleasurable activities but on the pleasure of an intimate and subjective encounter with the beauty and colours of nature. Its pleasure unfurls in the mind, taking viewers’ thoughts momentarily away from the strains of the present to the familiar yet uninhibited beauty of nature.

WHAT IS THIS EXHIBITION ABOUT?

This exhibition is all about the essence of colors, nature, and positivity in life, which is a message I wish to spread amongst the art world and abroad. Although the works that I create will always have the same message of spreading the beauty of flowers and nature, this exhibition is more so focused on the urge to create.

WHAT INFLUENCE HAS THE PANDEMIC HAD OVER YOU AND YOUR WORKS?

Here in Switzerland, I am constantly surrounded by my family, by nature, and by the beauty of the simple things of daily life that constantly inspire me to improve as a person... This increasing love for life, nature, and art has only pushed me to challenge myself further in my creativity. 

One thing that the pandemic has shown me, is how impactful art can be; art, not just in the forms of paintings, but also in the form of motion pictures, photography, literature, music etc. Just like escapism has been a movement for many centuries, it is still a relevant phenomenon for the present time. Art is connecting humans all around the world as it is a universal language and I am beyond honored to be part of the art world and art society.