Exhibitions

‘The Body of Cybele’ by Liu Youran – Tang Contemporary Art Bangkok

Tang Contemporary Art Bangkok

Aug 31 - Oct 14, 2023

^{Model 6-45pm, 2023, Oil and acrylic on canvas, 210×360cm (210×120cm×3)
All images courtesy of Tang Contemporary Art Bangkok}

 Liu Youran has consistently pursued the creation of visually pure and exquisite artwork. To distinguish herself from the traditional depictions of beauty from a male perspective, she intentionally incorporates elements of contrast within her compositions. In pieces like "Play 1:49 am" and "Model 6:45 pm," she smoothly blends human figures with a profusion of dynamic natural elements and animal imagery. By using subtly varied shades of blue and green, she generates visually compelling scenes bursting with vitality. The captivating power of a creative deity is unveiled within seemingly tranquil scenes but dramatic scenarios. However, this frozen moment resembles a still frame from a performance. The distorted spatial relationships and the sensation of post-production scene construction render the inherent passivity and immanence of these bodies beneath the self-evident divinity. The surrealistic painting language blurs temporal and spatial boundaries, defying the constraints of reality's logic. This adds fascination and an aura of mystery to the composition, while also crafting a more delicately nuanced metaphorical effect.

About the Artist

Liu Youran (b. 1996, Hubei) graduated from China Academy of Fine Arts with bachelor's and master's degrees. Now lives and works in Hangzhou, China.
 
Liu Youran attempts to explore more possibilities for the expression of women's identity in the context of contemporary society, focusing on the women's viewing methods and realistic situations. Through the surrealist painting language, she presents the conflict between the basic requirements of women trying to establish themselves, the subject, and the requirements from the surrounding in a softer way.