Jing Luchuan’s body of work deftly explores themes of self-identity, societal structures, and political ideologies, focusing strongly on modern China. His three prominent series—Rhapsody, Make Flowers, Not War, and Harmony—each conveys a unique critique of both personal and collective experience.
In the Rhapsody series, Jing uses surrealist distortions of human figures alongside communist symbols to examine the psychological impact of political propaganda. The distorted figures, paired with elements such as the Communist Party emblem, navy uniforms, and red five-pointed stars, reflect the tension between personal identity and ideological pressure. His characters’ sceptical gazes capture the struggle for self-awareness in a world that demands conformity, with layers of symbolic imagery challenging the viewer to consider how external forces shape the self.
In his Make Flowers, Not War series, Jing shifts to a hopeful narrative advocating peace and reconciliation. Here, sunflowers and multicoloured lilies, inspired by Van Gogh, are transformed into symbols of optimism. At the same time, the colours of the national flags of countries in conflict and the central vase motif blending the earth with the vessel symbolise the interconnectedness of all people and nations, making a compelling call for unity. The faded reds in smaller canvases reference the lost nations of the Soviet Union and East Germany, creating a subtle critique of the fragility of political systems. Jing uses these vibrant floral motifs as metaphors for peace, reminding viewers of the power of art to transcend divisions and foster harmony.
His Harmony series is inspired by traditional Taoist and Confucian philosophies, exploring the interconnectedness of sky, earth, and humanity. With imagery of withered trees, stone lions, and village houses alongside Mondrian-inspired colour blocks, Jing creates a visual representation of balance and unity. This series blends Eastern and Western influences, symbolising the belief in harmony through balance while highlighting human life and nature’s cultural and spiritual interconnectedness.
Jing’s work profoundly explores how political and societal forces shape personal identity. His symbolic imagery creates a narrative of purity, concealment, and authority, provoking reflection on the viewer’s experiences. Through his diverse body of work, Jing invites us to contemplate the broader human experience, merging past and present, hope and disillusionment, in a visually compelling and thought-provoking manner.
