Chapter 181 - 148: Who is the Living Michael Angelo?_2
In the Ancient Acropolis of Athens’ Parthenon Temple, he attempted to use gypsum to replicate those damaged sculptures, reinterpreting the beauty of antiquity through the lens of art restoration.
In India, at the Ajanta Caves and Ellora Caves, he deeply explored how to convey the inner peace and sanctity of the mind through stone carving. He experimented with integrating classical Indian Buddhist sculptural features with contemporary minimalist concepts into wood carving, creating Buddha figures that were both traditional and infused with new meaning.
In Kyoto, Japan, he focused on learning the delicate skills of wood carving, creating small sculptures that embodied Zen while also featuring his personal style.
His journey to Africa exposed him to primitive and powerful sculptural art, particularly finding inspiration in the bronze works of Benin and the Dogon sculptures of Mali. He tried using local materials, such as soapstone or wood, to create sculptures that reflected the spirit of African tribal culture while maintaining his personal touch. These works often emphasized natural forms and the harmonious coexistence of humans with nature.
In Mexico, influenced by the Maya and Aztec civilizations, he attempted to carve symbolic totem poles or deity figures out of stone, incorporating modern design concepts.
In the southwest of Lighthouse Country, the terracotta sculptures of the Navajo and Hopi Tribe sparked his interest in new explorations with clay, once creating works that had a traditional flavor with a modern twist.
In New Zealand and the Pacific Islands, he was drawn to the wood carving art of the Maori, learning how to tell stories and pass down history through wood. His creations not only showed reverence for nature but also integrated thoughts on environmental protection, calling for harmonious coexistence between humans and nature through his art.
Although he never appeared to use his real name and never left a trace in the media, Bai Shi had indeed completed many sculptures rich in artistic accomplishment.
If it weren’t for the fact that whenever he was in these places, his core goal had always been to sneakily take something away, he might have decided to settle down and become a true artist during one of his carvings.
"So, it’s not too much to call myself a modern Michaelangelo, right? I’m very good at carving marble, gypsum, wood, and it’s all top-notch in the world."
Bai Shi said after that long speech.