The Net 2008

Kexin Di created this large canvas, called 'The Net', using traditional oil painting techniques. Look at the materiality of the paint. The surface is thick and heavily worked, particularly where the net is depicted. Di seems to load her brush with plenty of paint, and then applies it in short, deliberate strokes. These strokes add a sculptural quality to the artwork, which capture the weight and texture of the fishing net. This labor-intensive approach mirrors the physical work of the men depicted. The artist also skillfully represents the figures, their postures conveying the strain and coordination required for this collective labor. The muted tones and realistic portrayal create a sense of authenticity, highlighting the dignity and resilience of the fishermen. Di’s approach underscores the connection between the painting’s making and the social realities it represents, blurring boundaries between representation and lived experience.