Last Updated on 2024/01/26
Global Painting: An Overview of New Chinese Art.
The exhibit “Global Painting: La Nuova pittura cinese,” conceptualized by Vittorio Sgarbi and brought to fruition by curators Lü Peng and Paolo De Grandis, with assistance from Carlotta Scarpa and Li Guohua, marks a distinctive presentation in the realm of contemporary art. In partnership with Moca Yinchuan and PDG Arte Communications, the showcase debuts at Mart Rovereto from December 7, 2023, to April 14, 2024. It highlights the artistic expressions of twenty-four Chinese artists, each offering a unique perspective on the evolving societal and historical landscape of China, a narrative introduced for the first time to an Italian audience.
A decade following the “Passage to History: 20 Years of La Biennale di Venezia and Chinese Contemporary Art” at the 55th Biennale d’Arte, this exhibition brings forth a new generation of Chinese artists to the European stage. The journey commences at Mart Rovereto, paving the way for its progression to Belgrade, Prague, and London during 2024.
Artistic Direction and Interpretation
“Global Painting. New Chinese painting” sheds light on a recent artistic emergence from China, signaling a notable transition in historical narrative. This movement, identified as New Painting within China, predominantly embraces traditional painting methods as a means of artistic expression.
In the catalogue accompanying the exhibition, published by Skira, Lü Peng defines the essence of New Chinese Painting, a concept he introduced in 2007. This genre intersects with Cynical Realism and Political Pop, shifting the focus from existential musings to more tangible societal challenges. It aims to extend beyond the confines of Western-centric perspectives, fostering a more inclusive, global outlook. New Painting emphasizes the articulation of clear, discernible concepts and the reinforcement of art historical perspectives.
The exhibition presents an array of artworks by artists born between 1980 and 1995, a timeframe characterized by significant global and societal shifts. The lineup includes Bi Jianye, Chen Xuanrong, Chi Ming, Feng Zhijia, Fu Meijun, Ge Hui, Ge Yan, Huang Qiyou, Lin Wen, Liu Yuanyuan, Meng Site, Meng Xiaoyang, Meng Yangyang, Qi Wenzhang, Qiao Xiangwei, Shen Muyang, Tang Dayao, Wang Yilong, Wu Qian, Xiong Taom, Xu Dawei, Zhai Liang, Zhang Zhaoying, and Zheng Mengqiang. Each artist contributes a distinct narrative and artistic vision to the exhibition.
Artistic Identity and Evolution
Artists of this new era challenge conventional categorization, demonstrating a shift away from previous generations of Chinese painters. Their works, diverse and not readily confined within established genres or styles, represent a departure from the traditional norms of Chinese art.
Collectively, these artists embody a spirit of innovation, yet maintain a connection to the rich cultural heritage of China. Their art transcends nationalistic themes, addressing broader, globally relevant subjects, reflective of the globalized context in which they create. This movement marks a transition from a national to a globally-aware artistic perspective.
Curatorial Expertise: Lü Peng
Lü Peng, renowned for his contributions to art history, criticism, and curation, was born in 1956 in Chongqing. He has served in academic roles at prestigious institutions such as the Chinese Academy of Fine Arts in Hangzhou. Presently, he is a professor at the Macau University of Science and Technology and the Sichuan Fine Arts Institute and chairs the artistic committee at the Chengdu Museum of Contemporary Art.