Book artwork · 2019

The Songs of Birds 鸟之歌

Printed book

Chinese calligraphy, digital illustration, ink painting, and book design

2019

The Songs of Birds image 1

AUD $250.00

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Embark on a poetic journey inspired by the profound verses of Juan Hernández Ramírez’s ‘Totomej Intlajtol, La Lengua de los Pájaros.’ This collection of four captivating poems, guided by the Nahuatl worldview, unfolds the genesis of existence, the significance of language, the fleeting nature of life, and the enduring spirit of hope.

Under the mentorship of Professor Dang Rui from Shaanxi Normal University, this project seamlessly weaves together diverse cultures and languages. Meticulous translations into Chinese Mandarin and English, coupled with the elegant regular script of Chinese calligraphy on graceful scrolls, transcend borders. Beyond linguistic fusion, the project encompasses artistry in calligraphy, digital illustrations, ink painting, and book design.

‘The Songs of Birds 鸟之歌’ is not merely a translation but a celebration of collaboration, cultural appreciation, and the universal language of art and poetry. This multifaceted masterpiece stands as the culmination of Gabriel’s academic journey, a testament to the strength found in harmonizing diverse elements.

Recognition

Book presentation at the Association of Iberian and Latin American Studies of Australasia conference at ANU.

Presented to the Ambassador of Mexico in Australia and the Head of Political and Cultural Affairs, September 2023.

Presented to UNESCO’s Assistant Director-General for Social and Human Sciences, 2019.

The complete work

Four poems, four languages

Poem 1

The First Sun

Achtoui Tonatij / Primer Sol / 第一个太阳

The First Sun, panel 1
The First Sun, panel 2
The First Sun, panel 3

Poem 2

The Word

In Tlajtoli / La Palabra / 言辞

The Word, panel 1
The Word, panel 2
The Word, panel 3

Poem 3

We Are Flowers

Tixochimej / Somos Flores / 我们如花一般

We Are Flowers, panel 1
We Are Flowers, panel 2
We Are Flowers, panel 3

Poem 4

Standing

Ijkatok / De Pie / 伫立

Standing, panel 1
Standing, panel 2
Standing, panel 3