Philosophical Context of "World Tangent" by Zheng Hongxiang
In "World Tangent," Zheng Hongxiang presents a thought-provoking scene that invites viewers to reflect on the philosophical implications of boundaries and exclusion. The painting features a Caucasian-looking man in a mountainous region, holding a large ruler, with rolled barbed wire creating a seemingly insurmountable boundary.
Symbolism and Interpretation
The man’s presence in the rugged, natural landscape with a ruler—a tool of measurement and control—immediately introduces the theme of human imposition on the natural world. The ruler symbolizes an attempt to quantify, delineate, and control the environment, which can be seen as a metaphor for the broader human endeavor to impose order on chaos.
The barbed wire, a stark symbol of confinement and exclusion, enhances the sense of restriction and control. It delineates a boundary that should not be crossed, suggesting an effort to keep something—or someone—out. This visual barrier could represent various forms of exclusion, whether they be cultural, ideological, or political.
The creation of boundaries is an existential act, defining the self in opposition to the other. By erecting barriers, the man asserts his identity and control over his space, echoing Sartre’s idea of the self in constant conflict with the other.
The painting also evokes themes of isolation and protection. The boundary may be seen as a means to protect one's identity, culture, or ideas from external influences that could challenge or dilute them. This aligns with Heidegger’s notion of "being-toward-death," where individuals create constructs to shield themselves from the inherent uncertainties and anxieties of existence.
The barbed wire signifies a fear of the unknown, a reluctance to embrace new ideas, people, and influences. This is a recurring theme in the works of philosophers like Friedrich Nietzsche, who warned against the dangers of insularity and the refusal to engage with the broader spectrum.
