Schneider Gallery is pleased to present the group show, China Revisited. Photographers Gao Yuan, Wang Wulong, Chen Jiagang and Chen Nong each approach the photograph uniquely and offer the viewer a broad perspective of China and its culture. We also welcome for the first time, painter, Yu Qian.
In the series, Twelve Moons, Gao Yuan photographed twelve mothers and their children (from many different provinces of China), and the animals of the Chinese Zodiac. Each large, circular image depicts a mother formally holding her child against a background composed of several photographs from the Old and New China. Gao carefully selected the twelve mothers and infants, between the ages of three to eight months old, to represent of the rapid growth of New China’s economy. Also on view will be images from the series, Tattoo. Inspired by the Renaissance, Gao positioned her models to match the poses of women depicted in 16th century paintings by Italian masters. Their gaze meets ours as we study intently the artwork on their bodies.
In subdued landscapes, Wang Wulong explores the snowy foothills of Beijing, paths that lead to the unknown and the tree tops of a still wilderness. Wang’s explorations are his interpretations of beauty. Through his photography, it is his wish to express respect for his life, his feelings and the nature of his daily routine.
Chen Jiagang captured the abandon cities and factories of the Third Line, located in the Southwest and Northwest regions of China. In the 1960s the Third Line industrial towns were hurriedly set up in an effort to support relocated armament forces. By the early 1980s, the factories closed and millions of civilians found themselves jobless. Chen used an 8 x 10 inch camera to photograph the remains of once hustling cities and the people who occupied them.
Chen Nong introduces us to his new technique in which he uses a photograph printed on watercolor paper that has been painted with liquid light. He then applies watercolors to alter the final image.
Twenty- three year old Yu Qian paints in the Chinese tradition and hopes to harmonize the relationships between human and nature and human and human.
We invite you to the gallery to experience these five different perspectives of China for yourself.