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Work and life of master sculptor Zhang on exhibit
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A new and beautifully curated exhibition shines a light on the work of Zhang Chongren (1907-1998), one of the critical founders of Chinese modern sculptures.
The exhibition, open through March 15 at Hua Cui Art Center, a branch of Shanghai Oil Painting and Sculpture Museum, features original sculptures, copies of Zhang’s water-color paintings and some related historical materials and pictures that introduce the master’s journey through life and art.
Having grown up in an orphanage in Shanghai after he lost both his parents at a young age, Zhang studied at the religious Tushanwan Art School, where he learned French and was taught how to draw Western art.
After he finished his school education in 1928, Zhang worked in design for the film industry and a local newspaper. In 1931, he left China for the Academie des Beaux-Arts in Brussels and befriended Herge, the Belgian cartoonist known for creating “The Adventures of Tintin.” Zhang helped Herge learn about Chinese history, culture and art. As a token of appreciation, Herge created a character based on Zhang in “The Blue Lotus.”
At the end of his studies in Brussels in 1935, Zhang traveled through France, Britain, the Netherlands, Germany, Austria and Italy before returning to China.
He hosted exhibitions of his paintings and sculptures, and established Chongren Studio.
During the “cultural revolution” (1966-76), Zhang was reduced to working as a street sweeper before becoming the head of the Fine Arts Academy in Shanghai during the 1970s.
After the economic liberalization of China, Zhang was widely acknowledged in the Chinese art community. A collection of his oil paintings and sculptures were published and in his later years, Zhang worked as an editor and translator of several books on art.
In 1981, Zhang returned to Europe for a reunion with Herge upon invitation of the French government. Four years later, he received the French citizenship and settled in Paris, where he taught until his death in 1998.
Date: Through March 15, 10am-4pm
Address: 1978 Changning Rd
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