Liu Zhiyin (L) and Li Wei (R).

Li Wei and Liu Zhiyin, a dynamic duo in the realm of sculpture, captivate audiences with their profound themes and meticulous artistry. Their works immerse viewers in a serene and warm atmosphere through their refined forms and fluid lines. We had the opportunity to explore their creative process, the inspirations behind their art, and their reflections on their latest exhibition.

In conclusion, we spoke with them about their first major solo exhibition, "Whispers of the wind" at Whitestone Gallery Singapore.

Who are Li Wei and Liu Zhiyin ?

Echoes of Nature and Spirit: Insights into Li Wei & Liu Zhiyin's Art

"Flowering Morning and Moonlight Evening", Click on the photo for artwork details and price.

- What kind of sculptures do you create?

Li Wei: Our work is deeply rooted in our life experiences, perceptions, and interactions with the world around us. Through sculpture, we express these elements, with a primary focus on capturing the essence of humans, animals, and plants.

- What themes or messages do your works often explore?

Li Wei: We don’t follow a specific theme; instead, we create based on our heart and feelings. It's about listening to the wind, the rain, and our inner selves, much like the title of our solo exhibition in Singapore, “Whispers of the wind”.

"LI WEI and LIU ZHIYIN: Whispers of the wind" 2024, Whitestone Gallery Singapore

- How do you choose the colors and materials for your sculptures? What significance do these hold in your work?

Li Wei: At the beginning of creating a piece, we don't know which colors or materials we will use. It's during the process that we engage in dialogues with the work, allowing it to guide us. The work itself speaks to us and reveals its needs.

The colors are determined by the desired mood of the piece. If the work has a warm character, the colors will be warmer. If the mood is lonely, the colors will be colder. Every color choice is based on the atmosphere or emotions the work aims to convey.

Liu Zhiyin: When it comes to materials, we often experiment with different options. Various materials bring different energies, and sometimes the sculpture finds the material that suits it best on its own.

We aim to convey a free spirit and provide a warm feeling through our works. Thus, each sculpture will have distinct color variations depending on the emotions it embodies.

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"Nepenthe", Click on the photo for artwork details and price.

- Your work attracts viewers with its comforting and gentle silhouettes. What inspires these particular forms?

Li Wei: Our forms often feature soft, rounded contours that reflect our Eastern heritage. Unlike the prominent, angular features commonly seen in Western art, our sculptures embrace flatter, more subtle facial profiles. We aim to represent a universal Eastern image rather than focusing on any specific individual, portraying a generic Eastern boy or girl.

Over the past 17 years, our sculptures have evolved significantly. The styles and forms of our earlier works from 2006-2007 were different from what we create today, reflecting our personal growth and artistic development. As we continue to evolve, so do our creations, with each new piece incorporating fresh changes and insights.

In Pursuit of Expression: Choosing Colors, Materials, and Forms

"Where Could the Dust Alight", Click on the photo for artwork details and price.

- The soft, flowing curves in your sculptures are particularly captivating. Could you elaborate on how these forms are created?

Li Wei: Creating these flowing curves involves a complex process. Our forms draw inspiration from both Eastern and Western art traditions, blending influences from ancient Rome, Egypt, and Greece with the rich heritage of traditional Chinese art spanning 2000-3000 years. This fusion allows us to craft sculptures with a unique and harmonious aesthetic.

"The Butterfly Lingers Over the Flower", Click on the photo for artwork details and price.

- How do you collaborate as a duo on your projects? Do you each have specific roles or do you share responsibilities equally?

Liu Zhiyin: In our creative process, Li Wei approaches sculpture with a more rational perspective, while I bring an emotional touch. Striking a balance between these two approaches is crucial, and our years of mutual understanding enable us to achieve this harmony consistently.

Li Wei: During this time, my partner, Liu Zhiyin, who specializes in fashion design, has also been a tremendous support. Her design perspective enriches our work and contributes significantly to our creative synergy.

Following the Inner Tiger: The Fusion of Collaboration and Artistic Evolution

"LI WEI and LIU ZHIYIN: Whispers of the wind" 2024, Whitestone Gallery Singapore

- How do you decide on the clothing for the figures in your sculptures?

Li Wei: The choice of clothing for our sculptures is guided by the mood and atmosphere we wish to evoke, rather than reflecting real-life fashion. The colors we use are selected solely to convey specific emotions.

If we were to adhere to a predefined concept for the clothing, it might conflict with the intended mood of the sculpture. Our goal is not realism but rather creating a distinct mood or atmosphere.

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Li Wei & Liu Zhiyin with their largest sculpture "Soar to the Skies"

- Could you tell us about your solo exhibition “Whispers of the wind”? One of the highlights is a monumental piece titled “Soar to the Skies.” How does this artwork mark the beginning of a new series for the duo?

Li Wei: Previously, our works often conveyed warmth and gentleness. As time has passed, our sculptures have evolved to reflect a more youthful character, moving from a childlike quality to one of vibrant youth.

This evolution represents the dual nature within us—the warmth and gentleness of our hearts alongside a fierce ambition, symbolized by the "tiger" within. We have embraced both aspects, opening ourselves and our work more fully.

In the first decade of our artistic journey, we spent time in the mountains, training and creating. As our perspectives on life have expanded, so too have our works. This recent change reflects our growth and advancement, mirroring the evolution of our personal experiences.

"In a Sudden the Light Breeze of Spring Came" 2017, 23.0 × 10.0 × 48.0cm, Copper casting hot coloring.

Li Wei and Liu Zhiyin are redefining the boundaries of sculpture with their innovative techniques and deep emotional expressions. Their work reflects their personal growth while inviting viewers to engage with the universal emotions captured in their art. The duo seeks to harmonize contrasts—East and West, artist and artist, individual and collective experience—offering fresh perspectives. As Li Wei expresses his commitment to ongoing progress, we eagerly anticipate their future creations and continued evolution.

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