When we think of sculpture, we often picture static figures that are suspended in time. However, Beijing-based artist Zheng Lu challenges this notion with his series of metal sculptures that mimic the splashing of water, taking on the amorphous shapes of liquid as it splatters in different directions.
Forming the Liquid Narrative
Crafted from stainless steel, each sculpture has been cast to resemble water that is mid-splash. “The process of forming a work is like a complete set of ruminating processes, which is the rumination of humans and machines,” Zheng says. “The result is like a living body, a marriage of organisms and machines, and the result of the nesting of inorganic and organic substances.”
Reflecting the Viscous Appearance
Many of these works feature a shiny, reflective finish that adds to the viscous appearance of these sculptures. The surface texture varies across the pieces, with some being covered with thousands of Chinese characters Zheng picked out from historical texts and poems, which cover philosophies about the natural world. The combination of the hard metallic medium with the freeform shapes it takes makes these sculptures awe-inspiring to behold.
Scaling the Splash
Zheng’s sculptures range from small-scale to human-sized, and sometimes even larger, creating an immersive experience for the viewer. The larger pieces, in particular, create a sense of movement and fluidity that captivates and intrigues.
Following Zheng’s Narrative
To keep up to date with Zheng’s latest projects and upcoming exhibitions, follow the artist on Instagram. His work is not to be missed, and his sculptures demonstrate a fluidity and dynamism that challenge our understanding of what sculpture can be.
In summary, Zheng Lu’s metal sculptures are a testament to the fluidity and changeability of water, capturing the essence of movement and splashing in hard, metallic form. The contrast between the organic shape of water and the inorganic medium of stainless steel adds an extra layer of intrigue and fascination to these awe-inspiring sculptures.
