Duncan Wang

I graduated from Boston College in 2024 and am currently pursuing a master's degree in economics at Columbia University. My upbringing has been deeply influenced by Chinese philosophy, particularly its reflections on existence and impermanence. I continuously strive to integrate the philosophical ideas of both East and West into my artworks, exploring the question, “Who am I?” and the relationship between myself and my art. To me, the essence of art only revolves around one ultimate question: “Who am I?”

I do not see myself as a traditional "artist." Instead, I perceive myself as a medium—a bridge connecting my existence to something intangible. My artworks reflect my personal philosophy, drawing inspiration from the Daoist concept of “wu wei” (effortless action) and the Buddhist notion of “anatta” (non-self). At the same time, I resonate deeply with Camus’ reflections on art and life:

“The work of art embodies a drama of the intelligence, but it proves this only indirectly… It cannot be the end, the meaning, and the consolation of a life.”

To me, art exists as it is. It holds no intrinsic superiority, no more noble than a bottle of water or a mirror. Art is the fleeting expression of thoughts and emotions—it neither transcends eternity nor bears the responsibility of explaining life. I believe that every artwork reflects the unique life journey of its creator. The inherent limitations of language suggest that it can never fully capture the complexity and depth of art. In a sense, a piece of art is like an unwritten autobiography, and no language can truly capture the profundity and impermanence of human existence.

I am drawn to spontaneous creation. I am often compelled by bursts of inspiration rather than pursuing deliberate intentions in my art. More often than not, I feel that my works complete themselves, with me merely serving as their vessel. Through my creations, I aim to invite viewers to interpret freely and embrace the uncertainties in life and existence. To me, art is not about mastery or control but about a journey of discovery—a long exploration of the myth of my own existence.

I come and go, but art says I was here.