This painting is one in a series of six inspired by Chinese calligraphy. The underlying ideogram (executed in sumi ink) poses a basic concept. Ink spatters and successive overlays of red tones in acquarelle pencil and water colour problematize the strength and durability of the central motif, without ever succeeding in totally obscuring it.The great Tao flows everywhere.
All things are born from it,
yet it doesn't create them.
It pours itself into its work,
yet it makes no claim.
It nourishes infinite worlds,
yet it doesn't hold onto them.
Since it is merged with all things
and hidden in their hearts,
it can be called humble.
Since all things vanish into it
and it alone endures,
it can be called great.
It isn't aware of its greatness;
thus it is truly great.
Tao te Ching 34.
