Zhang Xiaogang

Zhang creates a sense of nostalgia in his compositions by utilising the conventions of the traditional Chinese photographer. Like his photographic predecessors, he uses dramatic lighting effects and flat anonymous backgrounds to idealise his subjects. In this work, the figures are painted with a smooth pearly finish reminiscent of porcelain, but are lacking in emotion and turn detached faces to the world…

His works question the future of the institution of family in the aftermath of China’s Cultural Revolution, an event which greatly impacted Zhang Xiaogang’s generation…

Painting

Saatchi Gallery

Between Reality and Illusion