Iron Root
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Ai Weiwei’s “Iron Root”: Art Rooted in the Struggles of Uprooted Lives
アイウェイウェイの『鉄樹根』：根こそぎにされた人生を映し出す芸術
Ai Weiwei has been using trees as a powerful symbol in his art since 2009. His sculptures, often made of wood or iron, are like puzzles—crafted from pieces of trees he gathered from different parts of China. This idea was inspired by a tradition in Jingdezhen, where dried tree sections with intricate forms are sold as decorative pieces for the home, appreciated for their beauty and contemplative nature.
The sculpture in my photo is one of Ai’s iron tree trunks. At first glance, it looks like an old, weathered, dead tree trunk. But if you tap on it, you’ll realize it’s hollow and made of iron—a clever twist that adds an unexpected layer to the experience.
Ai Weiwei’s “Roots” series, which includes works like this, is about more than trees. It speaks to the idea of being “uprooted,” reflecting on global issues like the struggles of refugees, the destruction of Indigenous lands, and even Ai’s own experiences with displacement—both his arrests in China and his life after leaving the country.
For those unfamiliar, Ai Weiwei (b. 1957) is a world-renowned Chinese artist and activist. He’s known for creating sculptures, installations, films, and photographs that spark conversation and sometimes contention. His work often challenges authority, which has made him a controversial figure in China. After leaving the country in 2015, he’s lived in places like Germany, Portugal, and the UK.
Location: Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
Timestamp: 10:08・2024/10/15
Fujifilm X100V with 5% diffusion filter
ISO 160 for 1/20 sec. at ƒ/4.5
Velvia/Vivid film simulation
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Join me and my border collie as we explore the serene nature trail weaving through the woodlands surrounding the Pola Museum of Art in Hakone, Japan. Along the way, we capture travel photography, macro shots, and the vibrant autumn scenery.
