Light, Beauty and Purification

The title of this exhibition, "Light, Beauty and Purification," embodies the long-standing creative themes in Paul Chiang's work. The exhibition is structured into three chapters:

Chapter 1: The Pursuit of Freedom
Chapter 2: Music and Nature
Chapter 3: Spirituality and Hope

The Pursuit of Freedom

These two works represent Chiang's New York period. They reflect his artistic thinking at the time and embody the central concerns of his creative journey. The New York art scene in the 1970s was undergoing a stylistic shift. While Abstract Expressionism still influenced it, Minimal Art, Conceptual Art, and Land Art were on the rise. Though these works can be categorised as Minimalist, Chiang explored ways to transcend minimalism's boundaries.

 These recent works from 2025, when juxtaposed with his minimalist paintings from 50 years ago, demonstrate how Chiang's art has evolved—now profoundly inspired by nature and the surrounding environment, imbuing his abstractions with a dynamic, life-affirming presence.

Music and Nature

The second Gallery corresponds to the theme of the second chapter: Music and Nature. Upon entering the hall, directly in front is a predominantly blue-toned painting, Afternoon of the Faun 25, evokes the impression of the sky or the sea. The painting presents natural scenery through abstract techniques, suspending the work between figuration and abstraction. 

Many viewers even describe "hearing" echoes of music while observing them. Chiang's art has deep connections with music. He is particularly fond of Mahler, Debussy, Arnold Schönberg, and Beethoven. The abstract nature of music harmonises with his artistic expression, creating a unique resonance.

Spirituality and Hope

Chapter 3's theme is "Spirituality and Hope." Inside the Third Gallery, the space is divided into two levels, with a central triangular atrium that extends upward. The interior is relatively dim, yet sunlight filtering through a few glass windows imbues the space with a solemn and spiritual atmosphere.

To me, art is the pursuit of light in the face of despair—
Reflecting purity upon darkness,
Seeking the truth and goodness in life.

——Paul Chiang