The Art of Repetition

Repetition always seems to carry a certain negative connotation. The mechanical repetition of assembly lines is seen as a waste of life, repetition in art is considered a disguise for a lack of inspiration, and the repetition of daily life feels dull and in need of escape. Repetition is often associated with a hopeless reality, like a vast river blocking the path to creation.

However, repetition also seems to be a necessary process for creation. Athletes achieve mastery on the field through rigorous, repetitive training; calligraphers, after decades of consistent practice, carve out their own artistic legacy; artisans, through years of repetitive craftsmanship, gradually evolve, discovering the secret to breathing life into their creations.

What is the true meaning of repetition? Does repetition bring constraint, or does it offer inner peace? We invite you to explore the significance of repetition with us and experience its power together.

This event is co-hosted by "umum objects," "Salt River Studio," and artist Chen Guanyi and will take place at the umum space. Artist Chen Guanyi will share her creative journey and guide participants through specially designed activities to experience the subtle transformations brought by repetition.

Please note that the talk and discussion will be conducted primarily in Chinese.

Original Text: Salt River Studio

重复似乎总被赋予某种负面色彩。 流水线上机械的重复被视为对生命的浪费， 艺术中的重复被当作灵感枯竭的掩饰， 日常生活的重复则令人感到索然无味，急需摆脱。 重复总与某种毫无希望的现实相连，如一条横亘眼前的巨河， 挡住了人们通往创造彼岸的道路。

然而重复似乎又是通往创造的必要过程。 运动员通过大量的重复性训练方能于赛场上收放自如； 书法家凭借几十年如一日的练习才能入木三分，开宗立派； 手艺人则在年年岁岁的重复制作中逐步蜕变， 寻得为器物注入生命的法门。 重复的意义究竟为何？ 重复的行为带来的究竟是束缚还是内心的平静？ 我们十分希望与你探讨重复的意义，共同体验重复的力量。

本次活动由「之間之閒」与「umum」及艺术家陈关一联合举办， 将于umum空间进行。 艺术家陈关一将为大家分享自己的创作历程， 引领大家通过特别设计的活动体会“重复”带来的微妙变化。

请注意，本次活动讲座与对谈以中文为主要语言。