Oil on canvas

170 × 180 cm. 66 7/8 × 70 7/8 in.

Dated and signed in Chinese on bottom left

LITERATURE
2008, Wang Yuping, Timezone 8 Limited, Beijing, p. 354-357
2013, Wang Yuping: Taipei・Beijing, Eslite Gallery, Taipei,p. 18
EXHIBITED
2 Mar – 7 Apr 2013, Wang Yuping: Taipei・Beijing, Eslite Gallery, Taipei

PROVENANCE
Eslite Gallery, Taipei
Acquired directly by present private Asian collector from the above
This work is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity issued by Taipei Eslite Gallery and signed by the artist

Pleasure in the Free and Unruly Life
Figures depicted by Wang Yuping

Born in Beijing in 1962, Wang Yuping is a pioneer of the new generation of Chinese painter active in the 1990s. His works have been shown in important exhibitions such as Venice Biennale, National Art Museum of China Biennale, Chinese Oil Painting Exhibition, etc. His works have been collected by National Art Museum of China.

A Real and Confident Expression of the Charm in Life

The illustration of figures has always been the focus of Wang's creation. As he said, “I am interested in their mediocre realm full of wisdom, love and annoying trifles.” In 2008, Red Hair NO.3, Wang specially chose a 170cm large canvas to present the painted figures in real size, showing his appreciation for the life states and characters of the people in the painting. The modern woman with red hair has been Wang's painting subject since 2006. She was the protagonist in 14 works, and one of them was selected as the cover of the artist's album published in 2008, a symbol of his special emotion for the model. The red-haired girl does not meet the secular standard of "beauty", but is a reflection of realities, and her self-confidence and cool personalities.

The layout of the work adopts two-person composition. The red hair, short skirts, black boots, and large-flowered sweaters reveal the fashion style of the 90s. The artist sharply shows the different emotional states of the characters through the perfect combination of contours, shadows, and different colors. The red-haired girl's unrestrained appearance seems to have a cold heart, while the black-haired girl faintly reveals the simple and introverted personality. Overall, the two characters display dramatic tension, and a casual, unrestrained, and light vibe, which in general speaks the essence of life.

Wang's painting is like a silhouette of life in the contemporary world, reminding us to affirm the postures of different people around us, appreciate different personalities through appearances, and enjoy the freedom of life.

Price estimate:
HKD: 400,000 – 600,000
USD: 51,600 – 77,400

Auction Result:
HKD: 472,000