Galerie Koo recently presented a solo exhibition by Hong Kong artist Liu Qishun, showcasing a series of his iconic works, as well as newly created zodiac animal paintings to celebrate the Lunar New Year.
Liu Qishun immigrated to Canada when he was young, so his creations are deeply influenced by Canadian and American popular culture, especially by sources such as comic books, TV dramas, and street art like graffiti. Growing up in Western countries has made Liu Qishun question his own identity as a Hong Kong Chinese, and in his works, he collages images, cultures, icons, texts, literature, and music from both the East and the West to express his doubts about identity and culture.
The exhibition “What Year is it This Year?” will showcase for the first time Liu’s latest collection – 12 unique Chinese zodiac paintings, interpreted by the artist in a humorous, bright, and colorful version. He uses a unique approach to emphasize the celebratory nature of each Lunar New Year.
The colors in this series of paintings are vibrant and colorful, conveying the celebratory nature of the Lunar New Year. The auspicious phrases in calligraphy convey blessings and good luck, and the calligraphy also exudes a sense of innocence, reflecting the joy that children feel during the Lunar New Year!
Ms. Gu Su’er, the head of Yongting Xu Art Gallery, said, “The twelve zodiac animals have been used since the Warring States period in the 5th century BC. They have been depicted and used for over two thousand years, from religious rituals to fine art to commercial advertisements. The lunar calendar is an integral part of Chinese and other Asian cultures. The Western perception of the twelve zodiac animals is often superficial because they have not been exposed to the traditional cultural significance of the zodiac. The Liu family aims to represent these traditional cultural symbols from a perspective of popular art and give them a 21st-century style.”
Date: From now until January 30th
Time: 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM (Tuesday to Friday); 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM (Saturday)
Location: Gallery Yonting, 7th Floor, Lee Kin Commercial Building, 67 Wyndham Street, Central
Image source and learn more: Galerie Koo
