Idol

Stars Group is the first avant-garde art group to emerge after the conclusion of the Cultural Revolution in China. Wang Keping is one of the most important founders. He also organised and participated in the two Stars Group Exhibitions in 1979 and 1980. Wang Keping later immigrated to France and made his name as an exceptional sculptor, whose works are collected both privately and by museums. Idol (Lot 143) is a classic work that can fittingly represent the achievements of the artist in sculptural arts. The artist distorted the face, the eyes, the nose, and the mouth in an exaggerated manner. Using “Idol” as a subject matter, the sculpture is adorned with a star on its forehead, and its facial features are still easily recognisable. It is not difficult for the viewers to associate this work with a particular political figure and determine its meaning. Under the social atmosphere at the time, Wang Keping's work was undoubtedly bold and innovative, both in terms of content and format. The experimentations and realisations of Wang Keping and other fellow Stars Group members made the most significant first step in the development of Chinese contemporary art.