The Spirit of Individualism: Shanghai Avant-Garde Art in the 1980s

This book explores the avant-garde art scene in Shanghai in the 1980s, challenging the narrative of contemporary art in China. It provides fresh perspectives and insights into the art and artists of this period, highlighting critical events and Shanghai's role in China's modernisation.

Format: Hardback
Length: 382 pages
Publication date: 03 February 2023
Publisher: Springer Verlag, Singapore

This captivating book delves into the vibrant world of avant-garde art in Shanghai during the captivating 1980s, offering a fresh and thought-provoking perspective that challenges the prevailing narrative surrounding the emergence of contemporary art in China. By providing a wealth of new insights and perspectives, the book serves as a valuable resource for art professionals and collectors alike, captivating their attention with critical events that took place in Shanghai.

The emergence of the Shanghai art scene in the 1980s is a testament to the city's remarkable revitalization efforts, which were tasked with propelling China's economic development onto the global stage. With a rich and complex history, including a strong legacy of the early twentieth-century modernist art movement, Shanghai has played a pivotal role in China's modernization journey and stands as a unique case study in the evolution of contemporary art in the country.

The book explores the diverse artistic expressions that emerged during this transformative period, showcasing the works of both established and emerging artists. It delves into the themes and motifs that characterized the avant-garde art scene, including the exploration of identity, politics, and social change. Through detailed analysis and vivid descriptions, the book provides a deep understanding of the artistic processes and the cultural context that shaped these works.

Moreover, the book offers valuable insights into the artists themselves, their backgrounds, and their contributions to the art world. It sheds light on the challenges and struggles they faced during this period, as well as the opportunities they seized to push the boundaries of artistic expression. By profiling a range of artists, including painters, sculptors, photographers, and performance artists, the book paints a comprehensive picture of the vibrant and dynamic art scene that flourished in Shanghai during the 1980s.

In conclusion, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in the history and development of contemporary art in China. It offers a fresh perspective on the art and artists of the 1980s, challenging the prevailing narratives and providing a deeper understanding of the cultural and artistic landscape of this important period. Through its engaging writing and comprehensive analysis, the book captivates readers and inspires them to explore the rich and diverse world of avant-garde art further.

Weight: 652g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789811986529
Edition number: 1st ed. 2023