WHO
Lalan

WHAT
Featuring the early works of French-Chinese artist Lalan (aka Xie Jinglan, 1921-1995), the exhibition sheds light on the origin of her painting career in the 1950s with over 10 oil paintings and paper works. As the first wife of Zao Wou-Ki (travelling and living with him in France), she refused to be defined by association, gender, or race. As a student of music and dance, she lived a challenging and liberated life, embracing her creative talent. The exhibition invites us to retrace the origin of her inspiration and the development of her painting career.

WHEN
Lalan’s artistic journey transcended mere technical evolution, intertwining closely with her life experiences. The influence of different art movements and cultural encounters allowed her artistry to flourish while staying open and perceptive to various avant-garde creative forms. Her roots in modern dance endowed her with precise control over bodily movements to express inner rhythm.