Introduction - Yulin Dog Festival
The first time I searched for the Yulin Dog Festival, I was overwhelmed with emotion and cried for days. Even now, the thought of the pain and suffering these animals endure, both past and future, brings me to tears. It's difficult to comprehend how such cruelty can be inflicted by humans on helpless creatures. It's hard to fathom that in 2024, such torture still takes place. Have we not evolved past these barbaric practices? Sadly, it seems some people have yet to move beyond this.
Creating this artwork was incredibly challenging. I spent considerable time reflecting on how to portray the immense suffering these animals endure, balancing the portrayal of that pain with sensitivity toward the viewer's emotional response. I also wanted to ensure that my art could make a meaningful impact. This led me to create a charity piece, as I realised that without collective action against the Yulin Dog Festival, the suffering would persist.
Patterns
Deep inside the patterns on the walls, dress, and floor are hidden layers of anguish. They capture the deep fear, suffering, and cruel torment that these animals endure before their death, weaving their pain into the artwork’s design.
Robins Mask
The robin urges us to help those in need, asking that we not turn away from their suffering, no matter how uncomfortable it is for us to acknowledge.
Demon Wings
Here they represent cruelty, cold hearts of stone, and the bringers of death. They feast on the tortured flesh without a care for the suffering they have caused.
Stars
The stars in this artwork represent the lives lost, symbolising that they will never be forgotten.
Charity Artwork
This is a charity limited edition print. All my personal profits from the sale of this print will go to those fighting change in Yulin.