Haohan Yang

During a group activity, my teammates and I visited London Bridge and Borough Market. Among all the places we explored, Southwark Cathedral left the deepest impression on me. Inside the cathedral, the intricate sculptures and vividly themed stained-glass windows created an atmosphere that was both solemn and dreamlike. I was particularly drawn to a wall hanging made from various materials that resembled a map. Inspired by its texture and structure, I recreated part of it in my own way to explore the relationship between materials and imagery.

Later, I came across the works of Stefan Gross online and was deeply inspired by his approach to material experimentation. He developed a unique medium called “Oil Plastic” to create vibrant and dynamic sculptures. Influenced by his bold use of color and innovative spirit, I painted my own piece based on one of his works, using multiple pigments to reinterpret his ideas in a two-dimensional form.

Throughout these stages of exploration, my focus gradually shifted toward the forms of plants and tree trunks. I transformed the originally monochromatic trunks into colorful, flower-like forms that express vitality and diversity—blending the boundaries between nature and imagination.

In addition, I visited The National Gallery, where I was captivated by the architectural structure and interior design. The interplay of arches, light, and color in the domed ceiling inspired me to create a painting based on one of its grand halls, interpreting its rhythm and spatial harmony through my own artistic perspective.