Two new books explore art and rural life in post-Mao China
Two new books on modern China offer contrasting perspectives. 'The Art of Contemporary China,' authored by Jiang Jiehong and part of the Thames & Hudson 'World of Art' series, delves into themes related to daily life, exploring the connections between art, society, tradition, and urban transformation, while steering clear of generational contexts and global influences. It references the 1989 Tiananmen Square event and features works such as Song Dong's 'Breathing' (1996) and Hu Yunchang's 'One Metre Democracy' (2010). On the other hand, 'China in One Village,' written by Liang Hong and translated by Emily Goedde, provides an anthropological examination of Liang Village in Henan Province, highlighting the effects of Deng Xiaoping's reforms since the late 1970s. Both titles are set for release in 2024, priced at £14.99 and £19.99, respectively.
Key facts
- Jiang Jiehong's 'The Art of Contemporary China' is a new title in Thames & Hudson's 'World of Art' series.
- The book structures Chinese art history thematically around everyday reality, not chronology.
- It avoids discussing international influences and China's art market economic context.
- Robert Rauschenberg's 1985 exhibition at Beijing's National Museum is mentioned.
- Artworks referenced include Song Dong's 'Breathing' (1996) and Hu Yunchang's 'One Metre Democracy' (2010).
- Liang Hong's 'China in One Village' studies rural life in Liang Village, Henan Province, based on 2010 interviews.
- The book examines impacts of Deng Xiaoping's reform policies from the late 1970s, including environmental damage.
- Both books were published in 2024, with Jiang's priced at £14.99 and Liang's at £19.99.
Entities
Artists
- Jiang Jiehong
- Robert Rauschenberg
- Song Dong
- Hu Yunchang
- Liang Hong
- Deng Xiaoping
- Emily Goedde
Institutions
- Thames & Hudson
- National Museum
- Verso
- Rang County Committee
Locations
- China
- Beijing
- Hong Kong
- Henan Province
- Liang Village
- United States
- Europe