Description
The project Return of the Gods represents my constant studies on Chinese civil society. Many of my early works derive upon my hometown, as well as my deep studies on civil societies focusing folk customs and folk aesthetics. However, in the recent works, my perspective has been broadened from my hometown country to larger-scale Chinese rural society, pertaining to these various folk beliefs. With a wide range of strange figures, these “buddhas” relate to every walk of life. Originated from modern life, these statues successfully created a new paradigm of old religion systems. In other words, people create buddhas by what they want and desire, which undermined old-fashioned stereotypes too.
A Grand Overview of Vernacular Aesthetics is a book series established by artist Zhang Xiao, with the objective of exploring, showcasing, and interpreting folk art, folk culture, and vernacular aesthetics. This series encompasses a diverse range of folk art forms from various regions across the country, as well as the everyday practices of the people, highlighting the richness and unique allure of vernacular aesthetics. It also reflects the general public’s comprehension of art, culture, and aesthetics. Through extensive research and the collection of samples from different cultural backgrounds, this book series provides readers with a window to comprehend the contemporary pursuit of vernacular aesthetics in China.
