China Gao Brothers Mao Zedong Chinese Art

China’s Most Famous Avant-Garde Artists Bring Mao Back to Life in New Exhibition

Gao Brothers Revitalize Cultural Revolution Iconography in Beijing Show

‘Mao Goes Pop’ Explores the Convergence of Art and Politics in Modern China

In an unprecedented exhibition that has sent shockwaves through the Chinese art world, internationally renowned avant-garde artists the Gao Brothers have created a series of life-sized sculptures depicting Chairman Mao Zedong as a pop culture icon, placing him in various iconic scenes and contexts. Opening to the public today at Beijing's Minsheng Art Museum, “Mao Goes Pop” examines the interplay between art and politics in modern China through the lens of the country's most controversial historical figure.

The Gao Brothers, Gao Zhen and Gao Qiang, are known for their provocative and often politically charged artwork, which has been exhibited in major museums around the world. Their latest body of work, “Mao Goes Pop,” takes a unique and daring approach to exploring the legacy of Mao Zedong, whose image remains a potent symbol of both the triumphs and tragedies of China's recent past.

The sculptures in the exhibition depict Mao Zedong in a variety of settings, from his iconic pose atop Tiananmen Square to his more private moments, such as reading a book or playing the piano. The brothers have used a combination of traditional Chinese techniques and contemporary materials to create these works, resulting in a visually arresting and thought-provoking experience for viewers.

In one particularly striking piece, Mao Zedong is portrayed as a superhero, complete with a flowing red cape and a clenched fist. In another, he appears as a rock star, strumming a guitar while surrounded by adoring fans. These playful and irreverent depictions of Mao challenge the traditional reverence with which he has been treated in Chinese art.

The exhibition has been met with mixed reactions from the Chinese public. Some have praised the Gao Brothers for their courage and originality, while others have condemned them for disrespecting the memory of Mao Zedong. Regardless of one's personal opinion, there is no doubt that “Mao Goes Pop” is a significant and provocative contribution to the ongoing debate about China's past, present, and future.

## The Gao Brothers: A Brief History

The Gao Brothers were born in Beijing in 1956 and 1962, respectively. They began their artistic collaboration in the early 1990s, after graduating from the Central Academy of Fine Arts. Their work has been exhibited extensively both in China and abroad, and they have been the subject of numerous solo exhibitions and retrospectives.

The Gao Brothers are known for their use of bold colors, unconventional materials, and satirical imagery. Their work often explores themes of Chinese history, politics, and society. They are considered to be one of the most important and influential contemporary Chinese artists.

## Mao Zedong: A Complex Legacy

Mao Zedong was the founding father of the People's Republic of China. He led the Communist Party to victory in the Chinese Civil War and established the People's Republic in 1949. Mao's policies had a profound impact on China, both domestically and internationally.

Mao Zedong is a controversial figure. He is credited with leading China to independence and modernization, but he is also responsible for the deaths of millions of people during the Great Leap Forward and the Cultural Revolution.

Mao's legacy is complex and contested. He is still revered by many Chinese people, but he is also criticized for his authoritarian rule and his role in the deaths of so many innocent people.

## Art and Politics in China

Art and politics have always been closely intertwined in China. From the earliest days of Chinese civilization, artists have been commissioned by the government to create works of art that glorify the ruling class and promote its values.

In the 20th century, the relationship between art and politics became even more complex. The rise of communism in China led to a new era of government-sponsored art, which was used to promote the Communist Party's ideology and policies.

In recent years, there has been a growing movement of independent Chinese artists who are challenging the government's control over art. These artists often use their work to express their own political views and to criticize the government's policies.

The Gao Brothers are part of this new generation of Chinese artists who are using their work to challenge the status quo. Their exhibition “Mao Goes Pop” is a powerful and provocative statement about the relationship between art and politics in modern China.