On the Collection "River, Stream, Lake and Sea: The life of a spirited fish"

If life was an ocean, and we are the fish, then all we must do is to keep swimming.

江河湖海 (Jiang He Hu Hai) literally, “River, Stream, Lake and Sea,” is a Chinese term referring to all major bodies of water. The metaphor encompasses all possible walks of life, through which each individual—like a fish—swims through.

Inspired by the idea of celebrating life and overcoming adversity, our artists personified fish, expressing the energy of life through their vivacity.

Fish are constantly swimming. Whether it be against or with the current, or in an upward surge or a plummeting dive, they persist. That type of determination—a life force, so to speak—is a spirit worth emulating. So this year, our artists came together to capture that life force.

Dynamic and full of movement, this series of nine crystal glass sculptures show fish swimming, leaping, diving and dancing. Teeming with energy, the artwork speaks to how we may appreciate the beauty of our own life struggles better.

In Eastern mythology, carp (also known as koi fish) are regal and elegant animals said to evolve into dragons. This collections dragons are depicted at the peak of their evolution, heavenly, mighty and bold, demonstrating the peak of our life aspirations.

Still, the ultimate message is one of passion. It is a message of determination. Our artists remind us that life is full of energy, in all of its ups and downs, twists and turns; and that we must face it with as much passion as we can muster.

“My mission in life is not to merely survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style."

- Maya Angelou

It occurs to most people at one point or another that life can be terribly challenging. Moreover, it can be immensely fatiguing. As artists and cultural ambassadors, we naturally understand this struggle. And it is truly never-ending—at least, from birth to death. Yet, it is a struggle worth celebrating. Because there is beauty in this struggle which you may never know until you love yours.