Comparing to the artworks Yu produced between 2014 and 2018, the ten pieces of acrylic paintings this exhibition features represent a breakthrough in the use of colors and brushstrokes. He replaced the dark, mural-like paintings with extensive use of highly saturated colors, such as bright yellow, hot pink, and sky blue. The collision of these colors grants the works a striking visual effect while signifying a subjective confrontation. Meanwhile, Yu also enhances his use of brushstrokes. Through the various directions and density of the brushstrokes, Yu ingeniously constructs ten unique spaces, each of which contains overlapping layers of dimensions. An ambivalent yet gentle inner world and a fantastical dream with petals dancing in wind are two exceptional examples of these spaces.
The title of the exhibition also symbolizes a bold innovation in Yu’s art. The phrase “Hakuna Matata” in the East African language of Swahili literally means “no trouble,” “no worries,” or “take it easy.” The ten works of art in the exhibition are also endowed with different Swahilian titles respectively. Atop the artworks that mingle abstraction with realism, form with informe (formlessness), Yu’s deliberate use of Swahili, a language that is unfamiliar to the majority of his audience, functions as an intriguing cipher, which hinders the viewer from analyzing the artist’s intention. Interestingly, the cipher-like titles transform the viewing process from a literal interpretation into a conjecture based on individuals’ emotional responses. The audience can only approach the artist’s hidden expressions through meticulously perceiving a series of traces on the canvas, including colors, brushstrokes, scratches, and motifs. As the meanings behind the Swahili words are revealed, one might realize that each chosen title perfectly summarizes the subtle emotion of its corresponding piece. Instead of depicting a specific scene, Yu attempts to present ephemeral moments of tranquility, jubilance, gloominess, or affection. These diverse emotions are capable of transcending linguistic barriers and figurative forms, reaching the heart of the audience with lingering impressions.