Layered Peaks and Towering Pines Overlook Distant Paddy Fields, from the series "Sacrifice" One from a set of twenty-four album leaves; ink on paper; with signature in clerical script (lishu) reading "Li Junyi 06"

Curator: This is Lee Chun-Yi's "Layered Peaks and Towering Pines Overlook Distant Paddy Fields" from the series "Sacrifice," created in 2005. The piece presents a landscape scene, yet its execution is quite unique. Editor: My first impression is one of distance and control. The gridded effect almost objectifies the landscape, turning it into a data point rather than a vista. Curator: Indeed. The "Sacrifice" series explores themes of environmental destruction and the tension between modernization and tradition in Taiwan. The grid could be interpreted as a symbol of human intervention. Editor: The arch shape enclosing the gridded landscape also feels significant. It evokes the format of a memorial plaque, suggesting loss, perhaps the vanishing of this natural world. Curator: Exactly, which connects with the series' title. Lee is compelling us to confront the sacrifices made in the name of progress. Editor: I find it particularly poignant how the artist uses traditional landscape imagery to critique contemporary issues. It’s a powerful commentary. Curator: I agree; the visual language is effective. The piece really brings to light critical themes about the trade-offs societies make. Editor: It definitely makes you think about what we lose in our pursuit of development. A very evocative piece.