Yuanlong Wang

Coming For You

Jackson's Art Prize 2026
Ink, Brush pen, Gold leaf, Pigment
Board, Linen
221 x 185 cm

“This work draws inspiration from Inferno of The Divine Comedy, depicting the scene of Dante’s awakening. The composition is divided into three layers – heaven, earth, and the underworld – by leaves and flowing water. The child in the sky symbolizes truth and the purest state of human nature. The guide walking on water merges Virgil’s rationality with Beatrice’s faith, with clothing patterns inspired by the Yongle Palace murals and facial features derived from traditional painted sculptures, embodying a divine presence. The two figures in the water, with one’s eyes open and the other’s closed, represent the choices in life – transcendence or indulgence. The three submerged figures, akin to the wolf, lion, and leopard from the poem, symbolize corrupting desires. The work conveys that reason may guide one through hell and purgatory, but only faith can lead to the perfection of heaven. While wisdom aids one’s journey, it is unwavering belief that ultimately reaches the destination. Great ideas are born to inspire self-realization, yet they also require the viewer’s active understanding and acceptance.”