What happens when an unusual artist known for his 'invisible' art and an art-loving champagne producer work together? A firework of sparkling ideas is released while connections between nature, its products and the people involved are uncovered. The wealth of thought is taken up and put into action with a gift for colours and illusions. Powerful visual statements are at the centre of all creative designs. The joy of creating together is more than evident in the works of Chinese artist Liu Bolin – created at Ruinart, the oldest champagne house.
You have to look closely to see the image in the picture. Optical illusions that outsmart the senses are the hallmark of Liu Bolin, born in 1973. He integrates himself into his photographic works and disappears into them. This earned him the nickname 'The Invisible Man'. Often along with other actors, he merges with a variety of surprising backgrounds. This effect suddenly makes things that were previously hidden visible. The viewer is made aware that there are further levels of perception behind the foreground. A game of hide-and-seek that even takes up critical topics such as environmental pollution in his home country. After studying at the Central Academy of Fine Arts in Beijing, he developed the method of perfectly camouflaged bodypainting. He paints himself with incredible patience and precision, a camouflage with a touch of calligraphy.
The fascinating body paintings by Liu Bolin, which merge with their backgrounds – famous museums such as the Louvre in Paris exhibit his extensive œuvre – have led the long-established firm Ruinart to work together with the artist. The impressive result 'The Invisible Hands' was exhibited at Art Basel Hong Kong and Art Basel Switzerland. The eight photographs focus on the human work that goes into making quality products from natural resources and which usually goes unnoticed. They portray Ruinart's champagne production from the vineyards to the limestone cellars. Some of firm's employees are integrated into the artworks. Unveiling disappearance, uncovering concealment, is a theme that underscores Ruinart's commitment to contemporary art.
