For his latest solo exhibition in Plum Blossoms Gallery, Zhu Wei explores the theme of the ‘Vernal Equinox’ and produces stunning works that further explore his familiar subject matter of common people and their lives in contemporary China. Drawing parallels from his famous ‘Heavenly Maiden Scattering Flowers’ series, figures are suspended in seasonal settings, which produce heightened correlations between figure and ground. The concept of order is masterfully rendered, revealing the artist’s fascination with nature and society. Being one of the most famous of China’s post 89’ generation of artists, Zhu Wei produces works that remain faithful to traditional Chinese elements and his grass-root upbringing. “When everyone is looking for a better life on the mainland, I am looking for something simple.” claimed Zhu Wei. Drawn from personal experiences and important episodes of China’s modern history, Zhu Wei’s artworks record the ever-changing scenery that is Beijing emergence and openness to the market economy and capitalism. Born in Beijing in 1966, Zhu Wei joined the People’s Liberation Army in 1982. Later, he studied at the PLA Art College and worked briefly as an artist for the Chinese government. He eventually graduated from the Beijing Film Academy, after his unit was demobilized in 1992. Despite his educational background and association with the artistic values of state sanctioned art, Zhu has an incredible knowledge of Chinese tradition and spends enormous effort in perfecting his ink washes, a technique popularized by Taoist artists in fourth and fifth centuries. His works are widely collected in Europe, the US, Asia and often feature in international auctions. The exhibition opens in Nov. 23 to Dec. 6, 2007 at Plum Blossoms Gallery in Hong Kong.