New York Chronicle

Heart-Healing Spectacle: ‘Soul Stitch’ Exhibition Unveils The Timeless Beauty Of Traditional Chinese Furniture

Heart-Healing Spectacle: ‘Soul Stitch’ Exhibition Unveils The Timeless Beauty Of Traditional Chinese Furniture

July 24
16:10 2023

Immerse yourself in the transformative exhibition, “Healing Heart – Asian Young Artist’s Perspectives,” hosted by EliteLink Education. Held at 508 W 26th Street, New York, NY, this captivating showcase explores the theme of emotional healing through a harmonious blend of thought-provoking artworks and traditional Chinese furniture.

 

Stepping along the exhibition path and entering the main room of the exhibition adorned with thirteen captivating artworks from the collection of Art Collector Gerald Gao and George Gao.

Gerald is a passionate high school student studying at Pomfret School in Connecticut, and George Gao is a recent graduate from Fenn. Both of them possess a deep passion for Asian arts and antiques. This remarkable assortment includes Jars, Wall Plaques, ink-colored paintings on silk, as well as Huanghuali cabinets, tables, chairs, and bookcases. Huanghuali furniture, the most renowned and valuable type of Ming furniture, holds a special place in history. The scarcity of the Huanghuali wood, its luxurious transportation, and the low usage rate contributed to its value. Gerald Gao’s deep interest in ancient Chinese furniture, particularly from the Ming and Qing dynasties, led to a remarkable collection. His passion for art was cultivated through visits to renowned exhibitions, museums, and auctions in his selection for this exhibition. 

The presented Chinese furniture, carefully chosen for this exhibition, hails from the Ming and Qing dynasties spanning the late 14th to the early 20th century. Crafted from various kinds of wood, including tropical hardwoods and bamboo, these pieces exemplify traditional Chinese furniture’s elegance and simplicity. Notably, these masterfully constructed pieces forego the use of glue or nails, instead employing intricate mortice and tenon joinery techniques. This sophisticated joining system seamlessly merges horizontal planes and vertical supports, resulting in a harmonious design. The highlight of the collection, the ‘A TIELIMU FOLDING CHAIR,’ crafted during the 17-18 centuries, exhibits the fabricator’s technical skill. The arms’ supports flow seamlessly into the seat frame, forming the chair’s legs, while delicate overlapping joints create gracefully arched crest rails on horseshoe-back armchairs. With striking silhouettes and refined lines, these ancient Chinese furnishings showcase the master artisans’ expertise. Ming-style furniture goes beyond mere functionality and aesthetics. It carries a deep philosophical meaning that reflects the principles and values of traditional Chinese culture. 

Ming culture, with its emphasis on the inner world and spiritual beauty, influenced the design philosophy of Ming furniture. The sophistication and growth of Ming furniture made it an integral part of China’s cultural heritage.

 

Artist Gerald said, ‘The placement of furniture during the Ming Dynasty, however, not only emphasized the harmony of functionality and aesthetics but also expressed the thoughts and preferences of the Ming literati of the period.’ In traditional Chinese philosophy, the clam represents tranquility, inner peace, and the healing of emotional wounds. The idea of harmony, serenity, and balance resonates throughout the design and craftsmanship of traditional Chinese furniture. Each meticulously crafted piece reflects the artisans’ deep understanding of natural materials, resulting in an atmosphere of calmness and serenity. Ming-style furniture serves as more than just practical furnishings; it is a testament to the cultural and philosophical values of ancient China.

“Healing Heart – Asian Young Artist’s Perspectives” is an exhibition that transcends artistic boundaries. Through captivating artworks and the timeless beauty of traditional Chinese furniture, it offers a transformative experience, inviting visitors to discover and be immersed in the power of healing.

Media Contact
Company Name: BluBlu LLC
Contact Person: Hanx Liu
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Country: United States
Website: https://instagram.com/blublu_art

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