Zhu Wei, The Story of Beijing No. 25, Undated

Ink and colour on paper
66 x 66 cm (visible), 88 x 88 x 3.5 cm (framed)
Condition: Very Good

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Zhu Wei 朱伟 (Chinese, b. 1966) is a leading contemporary Chinese artist known for his distinctive use of traditional ink painting to explore modern social and political themes. Trained at the People’s Liberation Army Art Academy and later at the Beijing Film Academy, he began his career producing propaganda art before developing a more independent and critical artistic voice. 

Zhu’s work is characterised by meticulous ink techniques combined with contemporary subject matter, often featuring stylised figures and subtle commentary on life in post-reform China. His well-known China China series, depicting uniformed figures in Mao suits, reflects both humour and underlying tension within society. Expanding beyond painting, he has also worked in printmaking and sculpture, and his works have been widely exhibited and collected internationally, establishing him as an important figure in contemporary Ch

A bold and vibrant piece that has been a part of my home for several decades.

This was my first real “art buy” at a Tresor’s art auction in Singapore during the 1990s. It was when China was opening up to the world, and with the historical and cultural significance of that in mind, something about this piece resonated with me at that time. Looking at the artist’s body of work now, it’s clear to see that his style has changed over the years, but I feel that this particular work, especially with the running figure, has an added layer of meaning given its context. 

(Photographed in April 2024)

Ink and colour on paper
66 x 66 cm (visible), 88 x 88 x 3.5 cm (framed)
Condition: Very Good

-

Zhu Wei 朱伟 (Chinese, b. 1966) is a leading contemporary Chinese artist known for his distinctive use of traditional ink painting to explore modern social and political themes. Trained at the People’s Liberation Army Art Academy and later at the Beijing Film Academy, he began his career producing propaganda art before developing a more independent and critical artistic voice. 

Zhu’s work is characterised by meticulous ink techniques combined with contemporary subject matter, often featuring stylised figures and subtle commentary on life in post-reform China. His well-known China China series, depicting uniformed figures in Mao suits, reflects both humour and underlying tension within society. Expanding beyond painting, he has also worked in printmaking and sculpture, and his works have been widely exhibited and collected internationally, establishing him as an important figure in contemporary Ch

A bold and vibrant piece that has been a part of my home for several decades.

This was my first real “art buy” at a Tresor’s art auction in Singapore during the 1990s. It was when China was opening up to the world, and with the historical and cultural significance of that in mind, something about this piece resonated with me at that time. Looking at the artist’s body of work now, it’s clear to see that his style has changed over the years, but I feel that this particular work, especially with the running figure, has an added layer of meaning given its context. 

(Photographed in April 2024)

Artwork located in: Singapore