In Rome, Ai Haibara and Lei Xiao Han take center stage in a double solo show that celebrates their exceptional skills in wood carving. Their works, deeply embedded in themes of childhood, spark a dialogue that both highlights their differences and underscores their similarities, creating a dynamic and colorful interaction between their distinct artistic expressions. Through meticulous craftsmanship, Haibara and Lei unveil the nuanced capabilities of wood as a medium, weaving together their personal experiences and cultural identities in each piece.
Haibara, born in Okayama in 1981, merges traditional wood sculpting with vibrant acrylic paint to craft lifelike figures of young women, often accompanied by animals or plants as spiritual guides. Her sculptures reflect a harmonious relationship between humanity and nature, carrying a poignant message of environmental respect. Each piece balances intricate realism with symbolic storytelling, urging viewers to reconnect with the natural world.
Lei, a rising artist from Guangxi born in 1996, blends Eastern and Western influences into her imaginative sculptures. Often depicting children alongside fantastical creatures, her works evoke emotions of melancholy and wonder. Her polished wood carvings, enhanced by vibrant hues and the warmth of the grain, reveal a poetic sensibility that captures the tenderness of fleeting moments.
Together, Haibara and Lei's sculptures create a shared narrative, guiding viewers through an intimate journey through memory, identity, and the timeless connection between humanity and nature. Their unique yet harmonious voices serve to celebrate wood’s expressive potential.
