Twin Lions
Welcome to Chinatown series
Inkjet print
2023
62×80 inch (157x204cm) Edition of 3 (+2AP)
40×52 inch (100x132cm) Edition of 9

The Lions Peaks, as a landmark in Vancouver, carries a strong colonial connotation in its nomenclature. Given that there are no lions native to North America, and Indigenous peoples would not have named it after lions, the name itself is a creation of the colonizers. This includes the Lions Gate Bridge, a Vancouver landmark named in extension of the Lions Peaks, signifying the gateway to the Lions. On the other hand, stone lions, often associated with “Chinese characteristics,” are themselves a product of imagination. There are theories suggesting that they evolved from the image of the Chow Chow dog, the mythical guardian creature, or even the Kirin.

Typically, stone lions are placed at the entrance as guardians, but this pair of stone lions stands on an unnamed bridge. From a serious cultural perspective, this can be seen as disrespectful to Chinese culture. However, it’s challenging to ascertain whether there is any element of “respect” in this arrangement. For me, this phenomenon represents a cultural misplacement, but for many Westerners, it might not carry the same significance. But I believe the reason for placing them there is likely consistent with the composition of this piece.

(Detail)

(Detail)

(Detail)

Shown in group exhibition Culture China, Through The Riptide as A Canoe, He XiangNing Art Museum (National), Shenzhen, China, 2023