Liu Bolin: Reflections on "Giammarco AU 1168" and "The Hope" in the "Hiding in the City" Series

Between Documentation and Commitment: Liu Bolin's Works as a Mirror of Migratory Dynamics

Liu Bolin, a globally renowned Chinese artist, continues to evoke deep reflections with his series "Hiding in the City," in which he literally blends into the surrounding landscape. Two of the most evocative works in this series, "Giammarco AU 1168" and "The Hope," delve into the theme of immigration, a topic of pressing relevance and profound emotional impact.

Liu Bolin: Giammarco AU 1168

"Giammarco AU 1168" is a 2015 work, produced in a limited edition of six copies, each measuring 120x90 cm. The artist painted and photographed himself visually integrated with the port of Catania, a symbolic location for migratory flows in the Mediterranean. The title of the work derives from the name of one of the fishing boats that, over the years, has transported numerous migrants from Africa to Italy. This choice is not random but is laden with meaning: the port of Catania represents one of the main gateways for those seeking refuge and a new life in Europe, but also the tragic scene of many lives lost at sea.

Liu Bolin: The Hope

"The Hope," also part of the same series and created in the same year, shares dimensions and printing technique. The work captures a moment as full of hope as it is of pain, depicting one of the first ships that brought African migrants to the Italian shores. Here, Bolin camouflaged himself among the debris of the port, evoking the loss of those lives that did not reach European soil. The choice of this scenario is not only a tribute to suffering but also a message of hope for a better future, a reflection that Bolin himself has expressed with touching words.

Both works employ the technique of pigment print on paper, a choice that ensures high image quality and durability. Each piece, being limited to only six copies, represents a unique and precious testimony of the dialogue between art and social reality.

Liu Bolin's art goes beyond mere visual representation; it becomes a critical commentary and a denunciation of contemporary social and political dynamics. Through his ability to "disappear," the artist not only emphasizes his presence but also the absence of those who have been swallowed by the sea in an attempt to reach a better life.

These works draw attention not only to the tragedy and difficulties of migrants but also to the responsibilities of host societies. Bolin's art, therefore, acts as a cultural bridge and a tool for raising awareness, inviting viewers to a broader and deeper reflection.

If you wish to explore the dialogue between art and migration through the works of Liu Bolin, Deodato Arte offers a unique opportunity. By visiting the website, you can explore not only "Giammarco AU 1168" and "The Hope" but also other significant works that make up the "Hiding in the City" series. An opportunity to immerse yourself in art that does not just decorate but provokes, questions, and inspires.