02/09/2026
Gothenburg · The Flowing Lifeline
Ink Gothenburg Series No. 3
50 × 70 cm｜Ink & Colour on Paper｜2026
Inspired by the shape of the Gothenburg map, I transformed the city’s geographical outline into a flowing, expanding trail of ink. It is at once a river, a sea current, and the living pulse of a city constantly moving forward.
The painting combines the expressive language of contemporary Chinese ink painting with elements from industrial design and visual rendering — light, shadow, texture and highlights. The powerful black brushstrokes express the distinctive energy of Gothenburg, while subtle touches of blue and violet bring the feeling of the sea and flowing water into the industrial landscape.
The sailing ship represents Gothenburg’s long maritime history. In the distance, the container terminal and industrial structures reflect the strong industrial spirit of this port city. At the very top, the old fortress connects the present with a much deeper history — once built for defence, it now stands as a witness to the city’s past.
Hidden within the darker layers of ink are fragments of Gothenburg’s churches and architecture, allowing the traces of human life and history to quietly merge into the city’s larger landscape.
And at the heart of the painting, the gentlest touch is the rising sun.
Golden morning light falls onto the water and across the city. The clean air, abundant waterways, the possibility of swimming almost everywhere, and the beautiful balance between nature and urban life are all part of what Gothenburg means to me.
This is not a map of Gothenburg, nor simply a cityscape.
It is the pulse of a city —
born from history, passing through industry, and flowing into nature;
constantly moving forward through time, while preserving its sense of freedom, openness and vitality.
Would you like to see the whole painting in person?
You are very welcome to visit my upcoming solo exhibition in Gothenburg. 😁🎨❤️
