I did not go on vacation during the summer, but I will spend a few days in southern France at the end of August. Of course, my beloved Paris is always with me; I embrace her anytime and can stroll whenever I wish. A few days ago, after attending a concert at the Luxembourg Palace, I strolled leisurely through the streets and alleys of Paris. Aside from some tourist spots being crowded, I felt that Paris seemed less populated, as half the residents had left for their holidays (to be replaced by another batch in August). It was rare to see a period film being shot in the alleyways near the Panthéon, with actors dressed in Belle Époque attire and horse-drawn carriages present; time flowed backward, and history was right before my eyes. It is said that filming takes place in Paris almost every day. Indeed, Paris itself is a movie, one romantic love story after another, as seen in the Luxembourg Gardens. Walking along the ancient Rue Mouffetard, turning a corner past the place where Hemingway once stayed in Paris, Parisian life fermented in the life of this great writer: "Paris is a moveable feast." In the alleyways, the French philosopher Descartes once left memories of his life, writing, "I am as I am, one foot here and the other in another country; I am glad to have such conditions, this is freedom." Walking through these historical scenes, if you pay attention to every corner, you may well be treading in the footsteps of those who came before. Paris is a museum and an art gallery; for those with eyes, it is blissful. History resides in everyone's perspective and cognition. Paris enriches my life and my sense of existence. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to live and grow in Paris.

This year, the weather has been cloudy and rainy. I merely passed by the parks and gardens until a few days ago when I went to Belleville to see a stage play, taking the opportunity to walk up the hill to Belleville Park, the highest point in Paris. Rarely did I get to overlook the panoramic view of Paris; the Eiffel Tower remains as magnificent and charming, gazing distantly at people. The day before yesterday, after watching a Woody Allen film, I finally had the chance to circle around Bercy Park. Under the large trees and among the flower bushes, people sought refuge from the heat, while lazy, relaxed individuals lounged on the lawns. On sunny days, joyful Parisians come out to enjoy the warmth of the sun.

The ritualistic "Paris Beach" opened on the 17th this year, though it was scaled down due to road repairs on the south bank of the Seine. We also took the opportunity to stroll during the bright sunshine. As usual, Parisians leaving the city for vacation or curious tourists participated in the event. Amidst the crowds, we enjoyed the rare beach atmosphere, whether watching the festivities or admiring the scenery of the Seine. Heading south along the Seine, the quays of Île Saint-Louis became the best place to cool off—a spot for sunbathing, chatting with friends, or couples falling in love. I even saw a newlywed couple taking wedding photos in this picturesque location. Near the outdoor sculpture park, groups of people gathered by the riverbank, dancing to music or watching the batobus ferries carrying tourists on the river.

During the summer, having quieted down, I began to create works, which slowly emerged. Action happens in the present moment, as I prepare for my solo exhibition in March next year.