Wednesday, December 06, 2006

Zhao Bandi Solo-Exhibition: Dec. 16 – Jan. 20, 2006


Zhao Bandi Solo-Exhibition: Dec. 16 – Jan. 20, 2006
Opening Reception: Dec. 16, 5.00-7.00 pm 2006

ShanghART Gallery is proud to present solo-exhibition by Zhao Bandi (b. 1966). Zhao Bandi’s practice encompasses photography, video and performance with issues of concern to contemporary society.

Zhao Bandi has made his reputation with staged scenarios where he and his toy panda play out everyday situations. Sometimes these consist of scenes from the life of a single father. Other times, the panda assumes the role of partner and lover. The panda is treated and acts as a ‘real’ character with a voice of its own that appears as speech bubbles in the photos. The toy panda becomes a spokesperson, allowing the artist to touch upon challenging issues and messages with an appealing sense of humor.

Zhao Bandi was born in 1966 in Beijing, where he lives and works. He graduated from the Beijing Central Academy of Fine Arts in 1988. Since 1993, his works have been shown at international exhibitions, including the Sydney Biennale (1998), 48th Venice Biennale (1999), 1st Guangzhou Triennale (2002) and the 5th AsiaPacific Triennial of Contemporary Art (2006). His project “Zhao Bandi & Panda” has been on public display in Shanghai, Milan, London and elsewhere.

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