LI SHIGONG

Upon learning that I had been selected to participate in a cultural exchange with other African artists in China, I was delighted. Even in my wildest dreams, I would not have imagined myself in China. It was too good to be true!

China, what a marvelous country! And what an experience! Everywhere we went, particularly in Shenzhen, we were received with the simplicity, generosity, and hospitality so characteristic of Chinese people. Experiencing the many flavors of Chinese cuisine is also a memory that I cherish. But to return to the purpose of our visit, I was inspired by the simplicity of life in China, that somehow extends itself into Chinese works of art. Chinese artists reflect daily life with incredible mastery; their dexterity and attention to details, whether in paintings or calligraphy, is nonpareil.

With my works created while in China, I try to show the simplicity of my subjects with a touch of philosophy and a splash of fantasy. While creating these works, I felt as if my body and soul were in harmony. Energized by my surroundings, I tried to illustrate the things that most struck me in developed southern city Shenzhen: skyscrapers, ports, calligraphy, and landscapes, to name a few.