Hear No Evil

The idea of Hear No Evil comes from the centuries-old proverb most commonly associated with the Three Wise Monkeys, often linked to the carvings at the Tōshō-gū Shrine in 17th-century Japan. Historically, the phrase encouraged moral discipline – a reminder to avoid listening to gossip, slander, or harmful speech that could negatively influence one’s character. This work draws on that original meaning while offering a more contemporary interpretation.

For me, Hear No Evil is less about avoiding the world around us and more about being aware of it. It is a reflection on the voices, opinions, and influences we choose to listen to, and how they shape our thoughts, perspectives, and sense of self. In a world of constant noise and information, the work serves as a reminder to be intentional about what we allow into our mental and emotional space.

Hear No Evil forms part of a wider series inspired by the enduring proverb of the Three Wise Monkeys. Across all three works, the message remains strikingly relevant today: what we listen to, what we look at, and how we speak all have a direct impact on who we are and what we become. Together, the series explores the relationship between our environment and our identity, encouraging a greater awareness of the influences that shape our everyday lives.