From Line 1978

Lee Ufan's 'From Line' presents us with a meditation on the most fundamental of artistic gestures: the line. This is not merely a line, but a procession of red and fading marks across a pale expanse. Consider the primal act of marking, a line drawn in the sand, a cave painting. It's a desire to leave a trace, to signify presence. The arrangement here evokes a sense of rhythm, a heartbeat perhaps, or the ebb and flow of consciousness. One might recall the linear narratives of ancient friezes, or even the regimented forms of written language, each carrying its own cultural weight. Yet, these lines are fading, becoming fainter, hinting at impermanence. The color red, imbued with life force and vitality, is also a symbol of warning or sacrifice. It draws the eye, engaging our emotions on a visceral level. As our vision follows the line's subtle variations, we become acutely aware of the artist's hand, the intention behind each deliberate mark. The progression of this symbol continues. It is a testament to the enduring human need to make our mark, to connect with our past.