Chen Zhen's Legacy: Spirituality and Globalization in Art
In anticipation of a retrospective at HangarBicocca in Milan commemorating the 20th anniversary of Chen Zhen's passing, Galleria Continua and his wife Xu Min contemplate his enduring significance. Born in Shanghai in 1955 and passing away in Paris in 2000, Chen Zhen created art that delved into themes of humanity, nature, and society. His prominent pieces include Fu Dao / Fu Dao and Upside-down Buddha. Relocating to Paris at the age of 30, he drew inspiration from his Chinese roots. His inaugural solo exhibition took place in Rome in 1991, followed by shows in Florence (1992), the Venice Biennale (1999), and Turin (2000). His last solo exhibition was held at Galleria Continua in October 2000, with his work still resonating in discussions of globalization and balance.
Key facts
- Chen Zhen died in 2000 at age 45.
- HangarBicocca in Milan will host a retrospective for the 20th anniversary of his death.
- His widow Xu Min worked alongside him for 20 years.
- Galleria Continua represents his estate.
- His first Italian solo show was in Rome in 1991 at Galleria Valentina Moncada.
- He exhibited at the Venice Biennale in 1999 invited by Harald Szeemann.
- His final solo show opened at Galleria Continua in San Gimignano in October 2000.
- Key works include Fu Dao / Fu Dao, Purification Room, and Social Investigation – Shanghai.
Entities
Artists
- Chen Zhen
- Xu Min
Institutions
- HangarBicocca
- Galleria Continua
- Galleria Valentina Moncada
- Galleria Vivita
- GAM Torino
- ADAC – Association des Amis de Chen Zhen
- Biennale di Venezia
Locations
- Milan
- Italy
- Shanghai
- China
- Paris
- France
- Rome
- Florence
- Turin
- San Gimignano
- Venice