Moulds used for copying bronze works and ceramics over the centuries can be seen in the show, though the emphasis of the exhibition is clearly on paintings and scrolls. Seeing Double' also explores the capacity of Chinese artists to harmonise tradition with innovation. In all cultures, the inspiration and skill that comes from studying past masters is an important part of an artist's training. Italian Renaissance painters and sculptors sought to copy the classical Greek and Roman artists in form and style.
Chinese artists look to their past with a similar awe and respect.
Two quotes reveal how these diverse cultures share a belief in the value of copying from the masters. He imprints his ideas in the work. The student studies the drawing and tries to imitate it. In this way, gradually, he comes closer to the style of the master. Although my work can never approach his in resonance and untrammelled purity, it may preserve some of his compositional features.