“Night Stars and Ocean” stands as a milestone in my artistic practice, marking my venture into the use of acrylic painting layered over the depths of 墨水 ink. This painting represents a departure from my traditional Chinese landscape training, infusing a contemporary spirit into the traditional moshui 墨水 ink in Chinese landscape and calligraphy.

I vividly recall the inspiration for this piece, drawn from a midnight ferry ride from Manly to the city. The inky darkness of the sky, punctuated by stars, and the chilly breeze invoked a profound sense of smallness in the vast expanse. The horizon’s deep blackness mirrored the unknown, reminiscent of the outer reaches of the universe. The resulting artwork captures the essence of that moment—a chaotic yet harmonious depiction of the celestial gaze and the formidable, almost intimidating, expanse of the ocean.