To Spanish artist Miguel Villarino, death is just another "exit in life."Villarino's solo exhibition features paintings and prints, mainly woodcuts, produced from 1994 to 2006. The show is underway at Espacio Versatil Contemporary Art Gallery on Taikang Road.Among his works, "Exitus Vitae" ("The Exit of Life") series is perhaps the most profound in dealing with the eternal theme of death.Despite social status and wealth, death is fair to every living creature, says Villarino. But people seldom think of it unless they are forced to.The artist uses very simple strokes to capture the contours of several bodies lying on a bed. Detail is unnecessary to render his "heavy and deep" subject, yet the works are somber and powerful.With their monochromatic backdrop, the paintings convey the immensity of the silence and stillness that surrounds the last stage of humankind. The artist neither preaches nor arouses fear of death: He makes a simple statement.Villarino should know. He worked as a hospital orderly from 1993 to 1994.In contrast are colorful paintings and woodcuts created from 2004 to 2006, including "Chess Time," "Asterion's House" and "Where Men Who Don't Look Back Live."Villarino exhibited last year at the newly launched ShContemporary in Shanghai. His work has been seen at the Lisbon Art Fair, ARCO, TIAF and Expo XXI Art Fair.The exhibition opens through April 13, 10am-6pm.