Professional Peer Excerpt:

Xu Yuling exudes a nonchalant beauty and gentlemanly demeanor, facing various aspects of the world with a calm attitude. He possesses the ability to not chase after fame and fortune, remaining true to himself. In his inherent indifference, he never ceases to "think" and "create" in the realm of art. His extensive artistic notes attest to the 'thinking,' while his masterpieces serve as the embodiment of the 'doing.'

 

Xu Yuling's earlier sculptures are characterized by intricate "side lines." One line twists and turns, concealing the past, while another meanders and unfolds, creating layers of romantic and lyrical spatial melodies. Influences from the history of sculpture are evident throughout, showcasing remarkable skill.

In the middle period, works transition into a more "facing" observation, emphasizing light, inclination, rotation, and the interplay of various surfaces — culminating in a unified form. Works like "Tranquility" represent this phase.

 

Subsequent pieces, such as "Standing Woman," utilize a "round mass" technique (more of a concept), forming a complete entity. The final result is a rounded form or a lump of clay, approaching the realm of "blurred confusion." The distinctive feature is the interconnected and blended clay masses, devoid of intricate lines or twisting surfaces, presenting a harmonious whole.

 

The true challenge of sculpture lies in its tangibility, an inability to be abstracted. Sculpture involves a direct interaction between entities and space, where spatial relationships between entities become more critical than the relationships between the entities themselves.

Thus, sculpture has the potential for abstraction, as sculptural materials (clay, stone, wood, etc.) exist inherently in a supremely abstract and natural state even before becoming sculptures, and they remain so afterward. Sculptures are not generalized; they are abstracted, crafted spontaneously by the sculptor.

 

Xu Yuling's recent works embody completeness, self-sufficiency, and tranquility. He refrains from imposing concepts and content onto his works; instead, he strives to use sculpture to "return to the natural essence of life."

 

Deep within Xu Yuling's soul lies anger, akin to his life. However, he never expresses his anger in his works; on the contrary, they exude tranquility, reflecting his inner calmness and serenity.