Every atom on Earth is part of the torus, a self-sustaining energy system essential to life and power. Composed of two converging vortices, the torus forms a loop where energy spirals inward, moves along the axis, exits through the opposite vortex, and returns to its origin, symbolizing interconnectedness. Nature's most awe-inspiring phenomena—tornadoes, whirlpools, black holes, magnetic fields, and planetary atmospheres—all exhibit this form. The Earth’s own torus sustains its atmosphere, circulating through its core and enveloping the surface in protection. This shape extends beyond celestial bodies, reflected in the energy fields surrounding humans and plants, linking all living beings to the universe's rhythms. In this painting, the torus appears as a cosmic lens—transparent and spherical—encapsulating swirling galaxies, cascading light, and a central pulse of energy. The surrounding ethereal black void amplifies its luminosity, evoking both infinite expansion and intimate containment. Through the interplay of form and light, the torus transcends a scientific principle, becoming a symbol of creation, regeneration, and the boundless cycles that govern existence.

Q: What inspired you to create Torus(2020) and Torus(2021)?

Tan Mu: The inspiration for creating Torus came after I explored the relationship between mathematical foundations and aesthetics in Fractal (2019) and Atom (2020). In those earlier works, I delved into the visual language of fractals, focusing on self-similarity and infinite complexity. With Torus, I continued this fascination by exploring the topology of the torus, which I see as a fundamental mathematical form reflecting the universe’s structure.

The torus embodies a pattern of energy flow, permanence, and infinity that resonates with the natural world—from the motion trajectories of chemical fission to the forms of embryos, bacteria, and clouds. For me, mathematics transcends abstraction; it carries a profound aesthetic power. As digitization accelerates and transforms our sensory experiences, I feel compelled to reflect on these shifts artistically. Mathematics becomes not only a conceptual foundation but also a means to restore a sense of balance and continuity in a fragmented world. This 'nature-based' aesthetic serves as both a meditation and a restoration of the art of living.

Q: Why choose the black-and-white painting language to depict the topological structure of the torus?

Tan Mu: I use a monochromatic black-and-white aesthetic instead of rendering techniques, data parameters, or pseudo-color enhancements often employed in technical imaging. This choice stems from my belief that black-and-white expression more objectively captures and highlights the form of the torus. By eliminating sensory distractions, it directs attention to the image’s structure, shape, and the dynamic flow of energy within.

The stark contrast between black and white creates a compelling visual tension, emphasizing the transparency and rotational luminosity of the torus. This approach also reflects my broader artistic philosophy: to document and interpret the essence of our time while maintaining a meditative connection with nature. The humility and restraint of black-and-white imagery resonate with the cosmic principles I seek to explore, offering a contemplative lens into the infinite.

Q: Why did you choose to depict Torus (2020) with such an abundance of intricate points?

Tan Mu: My fascination with points as a visual language is deeply rooted in their dual nature—they are both aesthetic and symbolic. In this painting, the multitude of points resembles shimmering stars or bioluminescent organisms in the depths of the ocean. These points create a dynamic texture, highlighting the transparency and rotational flow of the torus while symbolizing connectivity and movement.

This approach is consistent with my broader artistic practice, as seen in my Signal series(2024) and No Signal(2019), where each point is meticulously calculated to represent concepts like information, pixels, or noise. These points serve as a visual metaphor for universal connections, transcending their immediate appearance to engage with broader themes. In Torus (2020), they function as markers of energy flow and structural resonance, echoing my interest in how visual symbols and data take on new meanings across different contexts.