Page 18 - The Parker Collection: Hua Qi Min

China has produced strong women for
many centuries, such as the famous
swords-women, or the sisters of warlords
who were trained in extensive martial
arts. Fu Hao, the wife of Emperor Wu
Ding of the Shang Dynasty (1300-1046
BCE), was among the generals who led
an army of tens of thousands in an
epoch-making battle.

Hua Qi Min's strong "Amazon Women"
are portraying these fearless fighters,
ready to defend what needs to be
protected. Nevertheless, their gestures
and gazes show us another side, a gentle
side, as if to say, stop this madness of
fighting and make peace.

The pastel colors and the nakedness of
the voluptuous bodies seem to convey
that these women are sensitive - even
vulnerable, caring, and in charge of their
destiny, ready to fight for the right cause,
but only, if needed. Min's "Amazon
Women" are transcending time and
space, leading humanity into a better
world.