David Ma
Name: DMA (Self Portrait)
Medium: Acrylic and Sumi Ink on Canvas
Year: 2024
Dimensions: 10 x 10 inches (H x W)
I am reminded of Zhang Huan's self-portrait, where he invited friends to inscribe Chinese phrases and characters onto his face and body using black ink. The brushstrokes appear fragmented and disjointed, giving the impression of floating across his skin. Interestingly, these marks lack coherent meaning, even to those fluent in Chinese, a fact that resonates with me as I, too, cannot read the characters. This disconnection between form and meaning underscores themes of cultural identity and alienation, inviting reflection on how symbols can both connect and estrange.