Renee SO
Solitude
2005

The scholar in traditional China held an esteemed position in society, as he devoted himself to the official service of the Emperor and to the cultivation of wisdom and culture. Upon retirement of their official duties, the lure of a simple, solitary life in harmony with nature inspired the building of walled gardens by the scholars.

Features of these gardens included artificial lakes, huge grotto-like rocks piled up to resemble mountains, open pavilions, and zig-zag bridges; a contrived, yet refined and harmonious environment perfect for contemplation, studying, painting, calligraphy, the writing of poetry and playing of music.

Drawing on the traditional crafts of knitting, ceramics and woodwork this installation is a tribute to the spirit of the scholars’ gardens of the past.