WHAT
The renowned Chinese contemporary artist (b. 9152, Beijing) is featured in this showcase, which comprises over 60 works done over 4 decades, bringing a new and revised discussion of his artistic journey. The presentation’s first curatorial approach expands on the artist’s research in his most recent large-scale exhibition (2021) – in which he delved into how the concept of abstraction has characteristics unique to China. The second approach references poetry written by Victor Wang – writer and curator – as a framework for the exhibition’s layout. Also showcased is photography and performance art, both mediums that are special to the artist – as he feels they were the perfect, abstract means to express essential ideas after China’s reform and opening-up.

WHY
One of China’s most highly regarded creatives, Huang has been at the forefront of Chinese contemporary art since the late 1970s and has pioneered the practice of contemporary art in China. The artist and writer-curator used the concept of ‘Tao (Dao)’ to organise the exhibition in order to free it from a traditional, chronological approach. It calls to question the division between figuration and abstraction, while showcasing the influence that music, poetry, and performance have had on the making of Chinese contemporary art. The exhibition also highlights the artist’s connection with other creatives, such as ‘godfather’ of French electronic music, Jean-Michel Jarre, as well as writer and poet, Beidao. Audiences will appreciate how the artist’s many inspirations show through his influential practice.