3 new exhibitions at SZ Art Museum

The Shenzhen Art Museum (new division) has recently unveiled three new exhibitions, showcasing a blend of contemporary and traditional art that promises to engage audiences and deepen their appreciation for diverse artistic expressions. All exhibitions are free.

Visitors admire a painting at the “Youhan and Yu Youhan” exhibition. File photos

‘Youhan and Yu Youhan’

“Youhan and Yu Youhan: Yu Youhan’s Early Experience and Late Style” is a major retrospective of the renowned Chinese contemporary artist Yu Youhan (1943-2023), one of the most influential figures in the development of modern Chinese art. It is the first large-scale retrospective following his passing, offering a comprehensive overview of his remarkable career.

With over 100 works on display, including a wealth of documents and archival material, the exhibition explores Yu’s early works, shaped by the turbulent social changes of the 1970s, and contrasts them with his later style. In his later years, Yu revisited his earlier creations, developing a style that was fluid, dynamic, and harmonious. His works, influenced by both global contemporary art trends and local historical contexts, are a reflection of his deep philosophical and cultural reflections.

Dates: Until July 10

‘On Tao, Tracing the Origin — The Art of Xu Lei’

This monumental exhibition pays tribute to contemporary Chinese artist Xu Lei. Xu’s work bridges the ancient with the contemporary, weaving together the rich heritage of classical Chinese art with modern sensibilities.

Curated as an exploration of Xu’s personal artistic journey and its connection to the broader cultural currents of China, the exhibition draws parallels between his paintings and the classical Chinese text, “The Literary Mind and the Carving of Dragons” (《文心雕龙》). This thoughtful investigation into Xu’s works reveals how his art resonates with the ever-evolving spirit of Chinese culture.

A painting by Xu Lei.

Dates: Until July 20

‘Masters of Polish Poster’

This exhibition focuses on three of the most renowned masters in Poland — Wiktor Górka, Waldemar Świerzy, and Grzegorz Marszałek. With nearly 100 classic works spread across five thematic sections, the exhibition delves into the diverse realms of drama, circus, tourism, and sports culture, showcasing the versatility and creativity of Polish poster design.

A poster by Grzegorz Marszałek.

The exhibition uncovers how these artists revolutionized graphic design by using visual language to transform public discourse. Górka employs geometric symbols to convey philosophical metaphors, Świerzy captures the tension of life through flowing brushstrokes, and Marszałek engages in playful visual narratives through intricate graphic design.

Dates: Until June 15

Venue: Shenzhen Art Museum (new division), Longhua District (深圳美术馆（新馆）)

Metro: Line 4 or 6 to Hongshan Station (红山站), Exit A1