WHAT
Portraiture as a subject matter is vast and significant. It encompasses depictions of individuals and groups, works that demonstrate high realistic skills, and pieces that reveal the inner world of people within the context of their time. Curated by Wang Wei, the exhibition is a grand display of over 300 selected portrait works over 3 floors, by both Chinese and global artists. They span over 130 years, showcasing the artistry of over 200 artists from the late 19th century to modern times.

WHY
Rather than following a linear path of art history, the exhibition showcases contrasts between different eras and regions. This is achieved through displaying portraits created by the same artist at different times, as well as those created by different artists of the same generation or across various eras. It is a rare opportunity to see so many high-quality and impressive works by famous and iconic artists (both past and present) side by side, and allows audiences to appreciate the history of portraiture and its impact on identity and relationships.