China
Curator and critic, Li Xianting (b. 1949, Jilin Province) is a pillar of modern Chinese art. A mover and shaker at a turning point in the country’s history, he recognised and encouraged emerging talent, promoted new trends, and organised ground-breaking exhibitions such as ‘China/Avant-Garde’ at the National Art Museum (1989). He edited Meishu (Fine Art) magazine and later the China Fine Art Newspaper, writing insightful reviews and important theoretical articles, and was instrumental in bringing contemporary Chinese artists to national and international attention.
A catalyst in the development of new generations of avant-garde artists, Li Xianting challenged the authorities, opened up space for experimentation, fought for reform of the national arts system and was a lifeline for many independent artists. After the protests at Tiananmen Square (1989), he continued to lecture and curate international shows including ‘Mao Goes Pop’ (1993) and the China pavilion at the 45th Venice Biennale (1995). He is director of Songzhuang Art Museum where he curates stimulating exhibitions, organises conferences and promotes professional art criticism, as well as running a fund for independent filmmaking and research.
Li Xianting is honoured for his lifetime dedication to the development of contemporary art in China, for his rigorous analytical thought in difficult circumstances, and for championing individuality and freedom of spirit.
Li Xianting
Li Xianting lecturing
CORNELL University: http://wason.library.cornell.edu
SINGAPORE CULTURAL SYMPOSIUM http://www.sph.com.sg/news
QUOTED IN ARTICLE: http://new.artzinechina.com
LI XIANTING’S FILM FUND http://www.lixianting.org/about.htm
LIST OF BOOKS BY LI XIANTING:
http://www.allbookstores.com
http://www.bestwebbuys.com
ARTICLES BY LI XIANTING:
http://www.wu-meng-chun.com
http://www.wangqingsong.com
