*The Birth of Tragedy (Questioning series),* 1996, acrylic on canvas, 116 × 91 cm

*The Birth of Tragedy—Night (Questioning series),* 1996, ink and gouache on paper, 210 × 115 cm

*The Birth of Tragedy—Day (Questioning series),* 1996, ink and gouache on paper, 210 × 115 cm

Questioning series (1996–1998)

Life is full of challenges, which can cause confusion. Doubts lead to questioning with the goal of finding answers. The Questioning series is a sequel to Gazing. It transforms into works of art the many philo-sophical inquiries one has engaged in regarding the values and choices of life. The questions are asked by means of honest confes-sion conveyed in the expression of eyes rather than in spoken or written words. Depicted in each painting are the many loud voices, messages, and stories buried at the bottom of one’s mind.
— J. J. Shih