Weng Fen (Weng Peijun), My Olympics, 2007

Weng Fen (Weng Peijun), My Olympics - Shooting, 2007

c-print mounted on aluminum, 59 x 47 in. (150 x 120 cm.) Edition 1/6. Estimate: from $4,500 to $5,500

Weng Fen (Weng Peijun), My Olympics - Discus Thrower, 2007

c-print mounted on aluminum, 59 x 47 in. (150 x 120 cm) Edition 1/6. Estimate: from $4,500 to $6,500

The transitional phases and changes in China since its opening up in the 1980's, both physically and emotionally, have been the source of inspiration for Weng Fen (Weng Peijun) (b. 1961, Hainan, China) and his work. In his earlier series 'Sitting on the Wall' and 'Bird's Eye View', Weng's images focus on the uprising of urbanism in cities. His subjects, often women with their backs to the viewer, stare out at the growing urban landscape as outsiders looking into this overwhelming transformation. Weng ‘s ‘My Olympics’, his most recent series, marks a shift in his portrayal of the female figure, as she no longer has her back to the viewer. The recent Olympic Games were a unique and unrepeatable opportunity to show the world new China in all her modernity. International eyes were resting on Chinese athletes. Weng Fen was aware of this and with a strong aesthetic language he showcased a nude woman who represented many Olympic sports. China can be seen to be represented by a young nubile woman who shows strength and determination, and she knows to be deliberately provocative. No more hiding, no longer a mystery. Completely naked, facing the future, alert to seize any opportunity.

Weng Fen has been exhibited worldwide in Asia, Europe and America, including the Pompidou Centre in Paris, the San Diego Museum of Art, the Shanghai Art Museum, the Taipei Museum of Contemporary Art, the Mori Museum in Tokyo, the Kunstmuseum Wolfsburg in Germany, the International Centre of Photography in New York and the Singapore Art Museum.

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