Guan Arts

Civilization and Valance

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This work delves into the concept of balance, a cornerstone of individual and collective harmony. Drawing from one of humanity’s earliest symbolic acts—writing on the body—it underscores the interdependence of body and mind, suggesting that the future of civilization relies on their equilibrium.

Central to the performance is the metaphor of the butterfly, inspired by Zhuangzi’s ancient parable. In his dream, Zhuangzi could not distinguish whether he was a man dreaming of a butterfly or a butterfly dreaming of a man, highlighting the fluid boundaries between reality and illusion, self and other.

The piece explores balance on two levels: body and mind, and body and nature. The inscribed Buddhist scriptures symbolize liberation from attachment, a source of human suffering, fostering harmony between the physical and mental. The butterfly and skeleton motifs further reflect the impermanence of life, aligning with nature’s cyclical rhythm of birth and death.

Eastern philosophy teaches that health and peace arise from balance. By harmonizing with nature, we achieve healing and inner calm. Ultimately, the performance emphasizes the transient nature of existence and warns against the destructive forces of greed and selfishness. Balance, both internal and external, is essential for sustaining hope and harmony in an ever-changing world.