Zhang Xiaogang: Disquieting Memories

Fineberg (Art Since 1940) and Xu assemble an impeccable biography, critical companion, and collection of plates into one stunning volume that serves to introduce prominent contemporary Chinese artist Zhang to American audiences. The book clearly shows Zhang's progression from a rural art student to an independent master, experimental but in control of an evolving style and color palette. Surprisingly, Zhang was not recommended for an artistic career, having nearly failed to graduate from the Sichuan Academy of Fine Arts in Chongqing. He was forced to find employment elsewhere, enduring several years of factory work and temporary jobs. Many of Zhang's most well-known works are ghostly, gray, and even disturbing. The book includes many of his simple drawings, sculptures, photorealistic pieces, and lesser-known paintings, and ends with his most recent work from 2014. There is also a collection of Zhang's personal and revealing letters. Many of Zhang's haunting paintings concern his family or his experience as a Chinese citizen, and the authors excel at explaining how those works fit into the larger context of contemporary China. Lavish and wide-ranging, Zhang's career is still unfolding, but this monograph illustrates how much he has accomplished so far. (Apr.)