Untitled 1974

This watercolor, by Ming Wang, is dominated by the color red, a hue that has pulsed through human history. At the heart of the composition, a roundish, diffused form radiates, recalling the sun, or perhaps the moon, celestial bodies revered across cultures. We find this motif echoed in ancient Egyptian art, where the sun god Ra was often depicted as a radiant disc, a symbol of life-giving power. Consider, too, the lunar symbolism in ancient Chinese art, where the moon embodies tranquility and introspection. But what is it about the color red? Psychologically, it ignites passions, evokes feelings of vitality, and signals danger. This visceral response is embedded deep in our collective unconscious. As you gaze upon this work, consider the cyclical nature of symbols, their evolution, and their enduring power to stir the human spirit.