Sixteen-Sixty

By Yuebin Gong

After completing major contemporary installation projects such as Site 2801, Life's Crossroad, Essence of Tai Chi, and Ethereal Ink, artist Gong Yuebin transitioned from visual arts to literary exploration. In this deeply personal memoir, Gong reflects on his life's journey, recounting stories of struggle, perseverance, and growth.

The book is framed by two significant milestones in Gong's life: his sixteenth and sixtieth years. At sixteen, growing up in a poverty-stricken village near the Yellow River, Gong began to understand the harsh realities of life while retaining a sense of heartful freedom. At sixty, living in California by the Pacific Ocean, he looked back on a life shaped by resilience and artistic exploration, contemplating his experiences with newfound wisdom.

Gong's artistic and personal evolution is symbolized by three waterways: the Yellow River, representing his origins and childhood; the Pearl River, marking the cradle of his artistic career; and the Pacific Ocean, signifying the pinnacle of his creativity. The book also includes a heartfelt preface by Gong's nephew, who eloquently captures the essence of Gong's journey: "Instead of cherishing or replanting the sixteen peach trees of Gong's memorable year, I believe in retrieving his curious spirit to venture into the bamboo forest of his sixties."

This memoir offers a poignant meditation on life, art, and the enduring quest for meaning, as Gong shares his reflections with candor and depth.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1737630001
• ISBN13: 9781737630005
• Release Date: September 2022
• Publisher: Gong Studio
• Length: 226 Pages
• Weight: 1.11 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 6.0" x 9.0"