Faculty of Art

Drawing and Painting

Zishuo Li

Rhythm II

Painting
2021
Coconut shell charcoal, cattail leaves, seashell on mulberry paper on wood panel
36"x48"x2"
From microorganisms to animals, every life is connected in a complex and fragile network of solids, liquids, and gases that make up our material world. To appreciate and reinforce this connection, I center my research on natural pigment making. I concocted several original recipes that are made from a variety of natural materials including organic pigments such as coconut charcoal, seashell, rose, dandelion juice, and mineral pigments that are made from grinding colourful rocks. To make paint and ink from these pigments, I did many experiments on different natural binders and additives to achieve the texture, transparency and consistency I need. Papers were crumbled before they were mounted onto the panel to enrich the texture and make undulating surfaces. The original shape and colour of the dried plants that are attached onto the paintings are preserved as much as possible. I was born in China. When I was a child, I used to live very close to nature. We’re told to look at and experience nature from a humble point of view. I suppose my work involves a certain level of conformity with nature. I am attached to natural materials because, deep within, they carry memories of the past. They are the witnesses and bearers of every natural event, from wind, rain, and snow, to fire, storm, flood and earthquake. The natural force that interacts with matter and defines our universe brings them where they are today, and human beings will never stop exploring where every species on earth is going to next. I use natural materials to make works that speak to the elemental forces in nature. Each new recipe and work bring me closer to understanding how we as human beings should situate ourselves considering that we are simply a single point within nature’s cycle.

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Rythm II
Rythm II

Work by

Zishuo Li

Interdisciplinary Artist

“From microorganisms to animals, every life is connected in a complex and fragile network of solids, liquids, and gases that make up our material world. I collect raw materials, experiment and create...” [More]