Guangyi, Wang | Eternal Halo, 2004 — available on Composition Gallery

Signed and dated -Wang Guangyi 2004- lower left - Provenance: Shanghart Gallery, Shanghai - Dominique & Sylvain L?vy collection, Paris

Eternal Halo by Wang Guangyi, painted in 2004, is an oil on canvas that encapsulates the aesthetics and themes of Chinese socialist realism while infusing a contemporary perspective. The artwork features three figures—two men and a woman—portrayed in stylized, heroic poses, each holding symbolic tools: a rifle, a sledgehammer, and a fist clenched in solidarity. The monochromatic palette with stark white outlines against a dark background emphasizes their forms, lending them an almost iconic quality. Radiating lines in the background create a halo effect, elevating the figures to near-mythical status. Known for critiquing propaganda and the commercialization of revolutionary imagery, Guangyi’s work often explores the intersections between ideology, nationalism, and consumerism. This unique piece, signed and dated by the artist, reflects Guangyi’s distinctive commentary on power and ideology through a mix of reverence and irony.

Wang Guangyi (China, 1957) is a Chinese artist renowned for his 'Great Criticism' series, which juxtaposes Cultural Revolution propaganda with Western brand logos, critiquing consumerism and political ideology. A leading figure in China's Political Pop movement, his work has been exhibited globally, including at the Venice Biennale.

Wang Guangyi

Eternal Halo, 2004

Name: Eternal Halo, 2004
SKU: 1385

Form

Painting

PaintingPainting is the process of applying media to a surface, using a tool such as a brush. The term refers to both the action and the resulting object. Artists use many tools to paint, such as brushes, airbrushes, palette knives, sponges or fingers and hands.

Medium

oil on canvas

oil on canvasOil paint is a slow-drying type of paint made from pigment particles suspended in a drying oil, typically linseed oil. The viscosity of the paint can be adjusted by adding a solvent like turpentine, and varnish can be added to increase the glossiness of the dried paint film. Oil painting has been used since the 12th century in Europe, initially for decoration, but it was not widely adopted as a primary painting medium until the 15th century.

Edition

Unique work

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Signed and dated -Wang Guangyi 2004- lower left - Provenance: Shanghart Gallery, Shanghai - Dominique & Sylvain L?vy collection, Paris

Wang Guangyi

Eternal Halo, 2004

Painting

Oil on canvas

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Becoming an artist was the only thing I wanted to do; it was my only hope—so I persevered.
- Wang Guangyi

Wang Guangyi (b. 1957 China) is a prominent Chinese contemporary artist, best known for his Political Pop series, which combines elements of Chinese socialist realism with Western Pop Art. His work often critiques the intersection of consumer culture and political propaganda, reflecting on the impact of globalization on Chinese society. Wang's most famous works include paintings that juxtapose iconic images of Chinese communist leaders and revolutionary symbols with logos of Western consumer brands like Coca-Cola and Marlboro, creating a dialogue between ideological control and consumerism. His use of bold colors and graphic compositions draws from both propaganda art and commercial advertising, making his work a commentary on the fusion of politics and consumer culture in the modern world. Wang Guangyi is considered a key figure in the Chinese avant-garde movement, and his work has been exhibited internationally, contributing significantly to the discourse on contemporary Chinese art. (Artist website)

Artwork by Miles Aldridge

What is contemporary art?

Contemporary art refers to avant-garde or innovative art created in the recent past or present day. The exact starting point of contemporary art varies depending on the institution, often tied to the founding year of museums or galleries that showcase the style. Contemporary art is characterized by its focus on current ideas, diverse media, and the exploration of new concepts and techniques.

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Wang Guangyi