Wu Ching Ju
Wu Ching Ju works mostly from her studio located in the mountains near where she grew up in the Huatung Valley. In this picturesque environment in the midst of nature, she continues to create powerful yet intrinsically delicate works, merging influences from both Chinese and Western cultures.
'I become entirely engrossed in my subject … I shut out the outside world, which, in oriental philosophy, is extremely important. Only when you can completely concentrate are you at peace with yourself.'
Wu Ching Ju's sculptures sensitively abstract Western figurative sculpture from its traditional form, while reaching new levels of expression. 'Emotions play an important part in my work', she says. 'Serenity, modesty, sadness, tranquillity and joy feature prominently.' While her subjects clearly reflect her passion for Chinese history, legend and religion, her process, she explains, closely engages with it too.