Cai Zhisong : Motherland – at ChinaSquare Gallery, New York
ChinaSquare Gallery, New York
Cai Zhisong : Motherland
From Thursday May 7
ChinaSquare Gallery presents CAI ZHISONG : MOTHERLAND, Cai Zhisong’s first solo exhibition in the west.
Cai Zhisong
Custom to Motherland No. 3,
2003
reinforced fiberglass and lead sheet and lead wires
94 x 74 x 235 cm / 37.01 x 29.13 x 92.52 in.
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Cai’s sculptures of life sized soldiers, made of copper, bronze and lead, are reminiscent of the Terracotta Warriors. They symbolically bow, kneel and pay respect to the sufferings of generations past, all the while exemplifying the strength that comes from enduring hardships. The figures portray an inner torment, a torment that resonates in us all. As Cai states: “Pain is universal, no matter who you are, everyone feels pain at some point.” Cai’s compassionate warriors touch on Confucian thought and shed light on the innate sufferings of the world, yet remain optimistic and hopeful by showing strength in body and soul. As Cai furthers to question theories of pain and its nonexistence, the Motherland series is not limited to one country or nation, rather it is universal in scope, ultimately transcending time and place.
Cai Zhisong
Ode to Motherland No. 8
2006
reinforced fiberglass and copper plate and brass wires
203 x 81 x 85 cm / 79.92 x 31.89 x 33.46 in.
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Cai Zhisong
Ode to Motherland No. 6
2006
reinforced fiberglass and copper plate and brass wires
90 x 45 x 58 cm / 35.43 x 17.72 x 22.83 in. (S)
146 x 73 x 91 cm / 57.48 x 28.74 x 35.83 in. (L)
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Cai Zhisong was born in Shenyang, China. A graduate of the Central Academy of Fine Arts, Cai studied ancient arts and received an undergrad and graduate degree from the sculpture department. His labor intensive work has been exhibited internationally including in the Beijing World Art Museum, Washington D.C.’s Kennedy Art Center, National Art Museum of China, and The 1st Beijing Biennale.
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