2025. Anita Chan Lai-ling Gallery, Fringe Club, Hong Kong.
Many deities in Chinese culture emerge from the human imagination of nature. Metal shaped Kwan Tai symbolises loyalty and righteousness. Wood gave birth to the Wishing Tree, realising wishes. Water formed the Sea God, Tin Hau (Mazu), protector of sailors. Fire created the Fire Dragon to drive away disease. Earth nurtured the Earth God (Tudigong), ensuring safe travels. The five elements (Wu Xing) balance and influence each other, driving nature’s constant change and growth.
Throughout the development of human society, we plundered wealth, destroyed forests, polluted waters, emitted harmful gases, and encroached on the land. Hong Kong’s grand ceremonies seek divine blessings, but do we truly deserve nature’s gifts? Incense bridges humans and nature, yet this connection must be rooted in respect and balance. Only by recognising our coexistence can these rituals hold meaning.
