Life is an inescapable fall
All those who have fallen possess wings
I have chosen collecting
to be my wings
I started to collect art in 1995 merely as a way for self-cultivation. Out of my personality that takes everything seriously, I studied Art History and visited exhibitions attentively. Despite all the hard works, I still got hurt due to my credulousness in the first few years, and with some unforeseen incidents in my life, I slowed down the pace of collecting. Art however, fulfilled my inner desire to probe eternity and life’s meaning during that period of time. It was in 2008, I decided that “collecting” would be my final stab at contributing to society. I started to work with a professional art adviser to build up a meaningful collection. As I looking back my collection recently (2015-17), I realized that contemporary art responses to issues in the contemporary society has accounted for more and more weight in my collection. This winding journey has enriched my life and expanded my vision unexpectedly.
Collecting is like a poem or a song, which I am still chanting.
There were doubts and confusion. Due to limited founds, it is decided to build up my collection in two directions which already taken shapes within my collection: one of sentimental, poetic, and personal aesthetics; the other one concerned with social justice and universal human rights. I would now consider how my collection could inspire people. What would be my point of worth to put forward if an exhibition of the collection is to be presented? What works should be further included to expand the meaning of the collection?
To me, collecting art is no longer just an interest. It is about surpassing myself, and about participating in the creation of art. It is a calm but passionate gaze to the world.
Before the fall
collecting is my ceaseless flight
Dr. Chen Bo-Wen
Began collecting in 1995.
Started studying art history in l998, inspired by Yen Ye-cheng and Andre Lee.
Started supporting artists and non-profit art organizations in 2008.
Member of M+ Council for New Art since 2018.
