Qiu Deshu (b. 1948)

Fissuring Series in red ink paste by Qiu Deshu from the early 90's were inspired by a temple visit with his mother in his youth. Afterwards, Qiu collaged the religious totems he saw, applying them on the support base with multiple seals; the effect is similar to the traditional Chinese grotto art and murals. The clean white background of the piece signifies peace and tolerance advocated in religious tenets. The red Buddhist statue, set off by the white Xuan paper (rice paper), evokes reverence and awe.

The vivid contrast between the clean, geometric patterns and simple colours is nothing short of striking. The presentation is a tribute to Suprematist artist Kazimir Malevich, who successfully broke away from the fetters of representation to focus on the simplest of basic geometric forms. The clouds, the statue, and the religious totem constituted by the shadows of the crescents radiate a spiritual charisma; they also reflect the artist's rumination on the creation of life.