It is 40 years since China opened its doors to the world after Mao in 1976. Socioeconomic changes have dramatically shifted Chinese culture. Some things have been lost and others remain the same. Life goes on.
The title of this exhibition ‘The Road Home’ (乡关何处) is from a Tang poem in which the poet wonders how he can find the true direction home. Zhang Xiao’s works have a dream-like quality and yet show great empathy with ordinary Chinese people as they negotiate the great changes to their traditions, environment and way of life. This exhibition is a selection from Zhang Xiao’s series of works over the last 10 years.
Vermilion Contemporary Chinese Art
5 February to 3 March, 2016
Sydney
People outside village store, 2015, instant film on paper, 54 x 39cm
Courtesy the artist and Vermilion Contemporary Chinese Art, Sydney