Alternation – works on paper by Weimin He
Thursday 1 September to Wednesday 30 November, Stables bar and gallery
Alternation is an exhibition by Artist-in-Residence Weimin He, which celebrates his creative journey with the college. Weimin’s creative relationship with The Radcliffe Observatory has been what drew him to the college and has remained a core focus of his work as Artist-in-Residence since he joined us in 2018. Weimin has developed an interest in the representation of the inner landscape, impact of creativity on mental health and the interplay between these and the perception of the physical world.
‘From 2019, the style of my work has gradually transformed from realistic depiction towards personal expression, reflecting more of an inner world and humanity. I wish my work to be a fusion of eastern and western elements, combining tradition with modernity. At the same time, the Tower will continue to be a subject of my work, and the tranquil campus of the College, along with the friendly members, will always be my inspiration.’ Weimin He, Artist-in-Residence
Weimin, a printmaker and painter, is also keenly interested in the conversation between Eastern and Western techniques and mediums. Weimin was born in Northeast China and went on to study art in China before travelling to the UK. This personal connection and expertise in Chinese art informs his use of Chinese ink painting with other mediums.
The exhibition is in two halves, the first a new series of works created especially for this show which celebrates both the iconic ‘Tower’ of the Radcliffe Observatory and this moment in Weimin’s creative journey. The second, a collection of pieces, being shown for the first time, which speak to Weimin’s creative exploration outside of his role as Artist-in-Residence at Green Templeton College.
‘Following the redevelopment of the Radcliffe Observatory Quarter site, the significance of the Tower of the Winds is beyond a symbol of Green Templeton College, it represents a new phase, and the future of the University of Oxford. Over the past decade, I have created numerous artworks reflecting the Tower in the form of drawing, ink painting and printmaking. The symbolism of the Tower for me is denoting an uplifting spirit reaching from the earth to space, from the past to the future. The Tower has become an important part of my life.’ Weimin He, Artist-in-Residence
As Artist-in-Residence, Weimin has been an important part of college life leading drawing classes, doodling workshops to unlock creativity and in promotion of positive mental health, producing works which enrich our experience of college and being involved in events which celebrate our community.
Weimin has positively impacted every part of college life and I am delighted to be able to work with him to produce this exhibition, both to celebrate his creative journey with us and share this more private aspect of his work with the whole college community.’ Rebecca Ritchie-Timms, Artist-in-Residence Liaison.
This exhibition has been organised by Artist-in-Residence Liaison, Rebecca Ritchie-Timms in collaboration with the college teams, and is on show from Thursday 1 September until Wednesday 30 November 2022 in the Stables Bar and Gallery.
The exhibition will be open to the public on Sunday 11 September as part of the Oxford Open Doors event.
