Cynical Realism – The History & Concept
The Republic of China saw a major upheaval and a contemporary movement in Chinese Artistry in the beginning of 1990. Since, the Cultural Revolution in China, there existed a beaten path and line for artists. This movement broke away all the shackles of the collective conservative mindset and concentrated on new themes. The artists took a pot shot on socio-political issues and events from the beginning of revolutionary China until date. The new angle and the point of view for all those events and happenings of Chinese history and present were visited. Contemporary artists in Modern China projected the changes in China, through their paintings, a reflection of ‘grassroots’ pain, uncertainty, and cynicism. Often humorous but always trying to send across a message to the viewer, Cynical Realism really gave a fresh lease of life to Chinese Art, especially painting. From Communism to industrialization and modernization they took it all with equal fervor.
The Artworks
Cynical Realism was in many ways, a strong reflection of the western influence on the Chinese art and culture. Chinese art historians and critics named it “Western Gaze.” It was indeed the influence of westerners. The volume of buyers from west enforced the faith of the artists that their work is in demand. The exhibitions of these paintings were organized on foreign soils. Artist Fang Lijun (born 1963), in October 2006, organized the first solo show in Mainland. His ‘baldheads’ are internationally accepted icons of Contemporary Chinese Art, Cynical Realism to be specific.
The Artists
As always, Cynical Realists are heavily criticized for the western influence in their artworks. These artists however, stay unfazed and are persistent on their efforts. Fang Lijun, Yue Minjun (born 1962), Yang Shaobin (born 1963), Wang Jinsong (born 1963), and Song Yonghong (born 1966) are some of the most famous Cynical Realists. They started their creative journey together, bonded together in bitter poverty, painting, drinking, and cavorting on the fringes of modern Chinese society.
Conclusion
According to Aldous Huxley, “Cynical Realism is the intelligent man’s best excuse for doing nothing in an intolerable situation.” For China however, this excuse is the new golden pig. The market for Cynical Realism is thriving and ever growing. The commercial appeal for these paintings is rising. Cynical Realism today, enjoys the reputation as an identifying tangent of Chinese Contemporary Art. They fetch the highest of prices globally.