Eli Klein Fine Art is pleased to present Where We Go, a solo exhibition of new work by Zhang Gong opening Thursday, July 26, 2012 from 6–8 PM.
Zhang Gong's newest collection of paintings entitled Where We Go, inspired by animation and western pop-culture of cartoon narrative, bring back his exploring female character Miss Panda. As much a stranger as she is a peer, Miss Panda is found amongst her old group of familiar characters like Donald Duck, Simpsons, Minnie Mouse, and Tim Burton's Victor Van Dort in a whole new series of cheeky, realistic renderings. Iconic scenes and pop-like figures illustrate these highly detailed paintings leading the viewer to become immersed and engaged.
Cultural differences between China, a country which has historically been detached from the symbols and forms of western entertainment, and America are highlighted in these exciting portrayals. Zhang Gong's heroine, Miss Panda, her panda minions, and gang of American and Japanese cartoon figures mock and explore the existing gap between China and the rest of the world. Zhang Gong, by constructing a stunning world that otherwise would never have been able to exist, provides us with a setting where cultural and generational differences can merge, meet, and play.
Each subject limned in Breugel-esque compositions and neoclassical portraiture is made up of tiny repetitious lines and found in contemporary scenes. Breaking from the archetypes of their respective period and elevated by the stylized technique, a world is created where layers of art and culture can roam unfettered.
Zhang Gong received his Master of Fine Arts from the Central Academy of Arts and Design, Beijing and is currently a Professor in the Department of Information at Tsinghua University. His works have been exhibited at the Kunstmuseum in Bonn, Germany, Singapore Art Museum, and the Museum of Contemporary Art in Shanghai. Zhang Gong's animations have been selected for prestigious international film festivals throughout Asia, Europe, the United States, Australia, and Latin America.
Where We Go will be on view at Eli Klein Fine Art from Thursday, July 26th through August 31st, 2012. The artist will be present for the opening reception on July 26th from 6 - 8 PM. For further information, please contact the gallery at [email protected] or at +1 (212) 255-4388.
