Liu Bolin: The Invisible Man

Klein Sun Gallery is pleased to present Liu Bolin’s third solo exhibition at the gallery, featuring new photographs by the highly acclaimed and internationally known Beijing artist. 

Liu Bolin’s The Invisible Man continues his exploration of Chinese national identity and the relationship between human beings and the environment. The large-scale photos on display will span his recent work and include his famed self-camouflage series Hiding in the City as well as Hiding in Italy. In one set of ten photographs, the artist pays tribute to the history of China and specifically Beijing. Liu Bolin chose the highly iconic site of the “Nine Dragon Wall” in Beihai Park to celebrate the grandeur of Chinese culture and history. The motif of the five-clawed dragon, symbol of Imperial power, chasing the enflamed pearl is prominent in Chinese classical tradition. The ceramic wall is also a magnificent illustration of Chinese artistic craftsmanship.  

Shadow is Liu Bolin’s latest exploration of people and nature and one which questions our assumed ownership of the natural world. Photographed on the roads and roofs of Beijing, these new works depict outlines of Liu Bolin’s body after he has laid face-down on the asphalt or tiled roofs during periods of heavy rain. The diptych format shows Liu Bolin’s body alongside the “shadow” he leaves, the literal mark of humanity imprinted on the environment. This series is made especially poignant due to China’s rapid industrialization which has the effect of leading to the systematic destruction of the natural world.