Li Donglu's 'Reborn' at Alisan Atelier: Ruin and Renewal
Li Donglu, a painter residing in Paris, will showcase his 2026 oil-on-canvas piece titled 'Reborn' in the group exhibition 'New Voices in Paris Now: Between Memory and Matter' at Alisan Atelier, Hong Kong, from May 29 to August 29, 2026. The artwork merges xieyi with traditional Western realism, depicting a cracked torso set against a desert backdrop, representing the downfall of civilization. Li characterizes nature as 'alive in the way of death,' emphasizing the cyclical nature of life and death. His piece contrasts textures to illustrate themes of decay and renewal, with elements like green patches and a branch symbolizing hope. The figure's flaws signify human fragility, while the subdued color scheme enhances drama and balance. Review by Sabrina Hau, ArtAsiaPacific intern.
Key facts
- Li Donglu is a Paris-based painter.
- His painting 'Reborn' (2026) is an oil-on-canvas work.
- The painting is part of the group exhibition 'New Voices in Paris Now: Between Memory and Matter'.
- The exhibition is held at Alisan Atelier in Hong Kong from May 29 to August 29, 2026.
- Li combines xieyi (Chinese literati gestural mode) with classical Western oil realism.
- The painting depicts a solitary, fissured sculptural torso in a desert landscape.
- Li describes his natural imagery as 'alive in the way of death.'
- The composition references penjing, substituting a broken body for the traditional tree.
Entities
Artists
- Li Donglu
- Sabrina Hau
Institutions
- Alisan Atelier
Locations
- Hong Kong
- China
- Paris
- France