Human and Nature—Mountain Stream Chapter

Author: Gao Hai
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-09-01
Features: Man and Nature, an eternal topic. From ancient tales like "Nuwa Mending the Sky" and "Yugong Moving the Mountains" to modern projects such as the "Three Gorges Dam," the interaction between humans and nature has never ceased. Different groups, different perspectives, and different conclusions. When a human body photographer begins to examine nature through the lens of human body photography, we can say he has matured; but when he can blend human body art with nature, we cannot merely say "he has matured" in such a superficial way—instead, we should say "he has grasped the true essence of art." The chapters on "Old Houses," "Mountain Streams," "Water Towns," and "Pastoral Landscapes" combine different elements of nature, creating a perfect fusion of human body art.
Old houses are imprints of time, leaving behind the sediment of ages; mountain streams are like the spirits of the wind, floating with the lightness of nature; pastoral lands are our true parents of sustenance, nurturing countless Chinese children; water towns are a part of nature, a Shangri-La for the soul. The harmonious blend of nature and the human body ignites a radiant light within the heart. You may ask, are there connections between them? In truth, there are no two things in the world that are absolute parallel lines—only that wise people see wisdom, and kind-hearted people see kindness, as they observe different intersections.
To appreciate "Man and Nature," one must first understand that the human body is a symbol of beauty and be aware of the historical origins of the nude as an art form. In fact, applying a healthy aesthetic sense, with a pure heart, to perceive, discern, and analyze beauty, and to cultivate one's character and elevate the soul through the process of appreciation, brings joy. Additionally, one should have a basic understanding of physiology, sports psychology, as well as photography, painting, landscaping, and ancient architecture.