From Line

Lee Ufan (b. 1936) was born in Korea and later studied philosophy at Nihon University in Tokyo, where he became closely associated with the Mono-ha movement in the late 1960s. His practice is characterised by an interest in the relationship between natural and industrial materials, space, and perception.

This painting belongs to his “Marking Infinity” project and explores the fundamental elements of calligraphy: points and lines. Lee Ufan views these as basic building blocks of the universe—elements that constitute the cosmos and existence, symbolising both unity and infinity. Painting on a canvas laid flat, he adopts a performative approach, using a single pigment and a breathing technique involving his whole body. The brushstroke is made in one continuous movement until the pigment runs out, recording the time and energy involved in the work’s creation.