Afloat, Atop a Marbled Sea

Jongwang Lee

I treated myself to a gallery opening tonight, which is something that I haven’t done in quite some time. The pieces were interesting and artsy, as one would imagine. I was reminded of how even a tiny canvass can be made to feel big depending on its content and emphasis. Operating in such a small space requires a crispness and deliberateness that is purposeful and delivers; with little room for waste, error or extravagance. I soon grew tired of my lesson though and the heat, so I stepped outside where I discovered another gallery next door. I was not moved even upon entry, but I thought that I would pay my respects in exchange for a cup of wine and a few bartered smiles. Nevertheless, I was soon struck by an unnamed piece that I will also include here via photo. This, my favorite piece was not included on the artist’s website, but is in the style of the Empathy series and Dream II.

The piece was also deliberate in particular sections and overall proportions, though some aspects of it seemed quite random and free. There were subtle parts along with boldness, white streaks that screamed in a way that is the opposite of what white would be expected to do. Body parts, feet, nails, tongues, boots, hind quarters all made to work together in a concert of motion that is difficult to escape – not that you would want to. On top of his talent, he seemed like a decent guy. 

Sheeplike Sponginess

I am sharing this link because I thought that it was an interesting read with some pithy and provocative insights. One friend referred to it as “pretentious, snarky, self-indulgent and chauvinistic.. reductive and objectifying.” While I find it humorous in large part, I wholeheartedly agree with my friend’s comment and believe that it gives us a window into the insecurities of the authors, while stirring a debate on malleability of readership. Nevertheless and ultimately, that’s not what I care about most.

As a man, I find it difficult to live by a code outlined for me by some other man, because to me that’s not what being a man is. Open to learning and suggestions, yes. Prone to sheeplike sponginess, no. Another friend hit the nail squarely on the head, by pointing out a glaring contradiction. The authors claim that “place-dropping is worse than name-dropping” which they do, not once, not twice, not even three times; but sickeningly more often in discussing best public restrooms (I’ll be throwing up at The St. Regis – thanks for the advice!). Hong Kong for a hair cut? I can cut my hair and shave faster than they can get through security. And with greater care.

The aforementioned contradiction along with others signify why we should be who we are, and not aspire to imperfect and even contradictory standards imposed on us by others who are unsure. Other men are just like us, imperfect and also trying to find their way. We are; however, accountable to ourselves and are our own representatives. Figure out what you like, and know how you feel. Determine what you would like to do. If you have something to say, say it – every message can be delivered with diplomacy. If you don’t feel like being diplomatic, be prepared for the blowback, but it’s up to you. You have yourself to thank and yourself to blame at virtually all times. Choose your battles, choose your words. Accept the counsel of others, not their manifestos. When there are too many rules, none of them can be done justice.

Obsidian Moon