Half the Sky: The Work of Liu Shiming

The Liu Shiming Art Gallery is pleased to announce its latest exhibition, Half the Sky: The Work of Liu Shiming, which opens on August 29 and continues through October 11, 2024. Showcasing a selection of sculptures and drawings by the renowned Chinese sculptor Liu Shiming (1926–2010), this exhibition explores his vision of women as central figures in both traditional and modern life.

Featuring 21 sculptures and 13 drawings, the exhibition focuses on several recurrent themes in his work: his reverence for the bond between mother and child, his close observation of artist’s models—showing not only a keen understanding of anatomy but also an ability to capture the individuality and spirit of each person—and his recognition of the changing role of women in society, portraying female workers proudly taking on jobs traditionally reserved for men.

The accompanying drawings offer a glimpse into Liu’s thought process, providing insight into the development of ideas that were later brought to life in his sculptures. His comfort with different styles is also evident, ranging from the blocky Half the Sky (1981), a small bronze sculpture of a worker gazing off into the distance, to the elegant prostrate form in Worship I, embodying more modernist ideals.

Celebrated for his creative blend of traditional Chinese techniques with modernist influences, Liu Shiming was recognized as a unique talent upon graduating from Beijing’s Central Academy of Fine Arts in 1951. He was among the first generation of sculptors trained in both Chinese methods and French modernist ideals, but it was his time spent living in rural communities and working in historical museums among Han Dynasty and other ancient artifacts that fully informed and profoundly influenced his artistic philosophy.

Liu Shiming: Half the Sky continues the gallery’s mission to share Liu Shiming’s work and humanist philosophy with a broader audience. The exhibition will be accompanied by a series of programs, including a concert and film screening, followed by discussions led by scholars and artists exploring the themes present in Liu’s work.

About Liu Shiming Art Gallery: Liu Shiming Art Gallery is dedicated to presenting the work of sculptor Liu Shiming through solo exhibitions that focus on thematic bodies of work, as well as contextualizing his art alongside other artists working within similar traditions. The gallery is committed to fostering a deeper understanding of Liu Shiming’s contributions to modern Chinese sculpture and his enduring influence on future generations of artists.

Liu Shiming Art Gallery 15 East 40th Street/ 5th Floor

 Open Monday - Friday 11AM-5PM For more information, please visit https://www.lsmartfund.org/ Or contact ashleywu@lsmartfund.org