Really, what can be said about a man that most know as a cultural icon responsible for popularizing Chinese Martial Arts in the West, philosophies and teachings that are as profound as they are novel, and a life so shrouded with mystery that the man himself has become a legend? He was a man that "kicked ass," as my friend recently summarized for me.

So then, how can the art scene accomplish the noble pursuit of rendering his "ass kicking" into something worthy of a pretty price tag? Gallery Nucleus has the right idea:

"The show strives to reflect with images what Bruce [Lee] taught with words and writing" -Gallery Nucleus Press Release

Numerous artists contributed works that ranged from paintings and sculpture to installations, all inspired by Bruce Lee's iconic form and his enlightened teachings.
The exhibit itself is filled with bright colors, and highlights well that Lee's influence was, and still remains, positive and illuminating for many. Tanya Philpott's "I Wanna Be Like Bruce", is a snow-cap-like wig made of fabric and other mixed media, resembling Lee's iconic hair. It both captures and confirms his popularity as a cultural phenomenon. Lee's philosophies, such as "be water, flow" and "learn to be formless" are prevalent inspirations in all the works, but what I found to be the most moving was the merging of traditional and contemporary medium. Martin Hsu's "Big Fight", a digital giclee print on watercolor paper is awash in vibrant colors and Chinese imagery. The modes and forms used in the exhibit are the ultimate embodiment of Lee: subtle teachings, traditional thought, and contemporary execution. And let's not forget, hardcore ass kicking.

By Liska Jacobs

The Nature of Water

Gallery Nucleus 626. 458. 7477