Between — A Residency Journal

Between tradition and innovation, between technique and feeling

In the Grand Flower Hall, I saw traces left by hand-carved woodwork. Unlike the smooth and full curves that a CNC machine could produce, these surfaces carried the marks of formation —imprints of hands, a quiet sense of closeness, and an ancient presence. They embodied a kind of touch that only time and imperfection could reveal.

It reminded me of an ongoing question in my own practice: How do I balance technical mastery with emotional expression?

The power of art comes from emotional clarity, authenticity, and the uniqueness of the creator’s voice. When working with traditional crafts as a medium, technical skill is important —but overly refined precision can sometimes diminish the emotional core or conceptual weight of the work.

For me, creative ideas often flow like water, too fast to be refined in technique.

I don’t get anxious at this time, because I believe that being touched does not come from perfection, but from truth.

The key is whether the heart is touched and whether the words are spoken.