Fabienne Levy is delighted to introduce the inaugural exhibition of artist Tang Shuo in Switzerland. Shadows of Boulder Hill encapsulates an intimately personal journey that resonates deeply with the artist. In this remarkable exhibition, we embark on a journey into the artist's past, specifically his cherished childhood memories from Boulder Hill, a place where stories have both their roots and their ongoing chapters. This marks a significant evolution in his artistic expression, as it's the very first time he has woven narrative threads into his canvas.
Shadows Of Boulder Hill is a groundbreaking exhibition. Tang Shuo takes on an unprecedented artistic quest, striving to breathe life into these characters and unveil the captivating tales that surround them. The artist's aspiration is clear, to transport us into the rich tapestry of stories and legends that have taken root in Boulder Hill. Some of these tales are etched deep into his own memory, while others have been lovingly passed down through generations by his family, and continue to unfold until today.
For the Geneva space, the artist weaves a narrative that spans the life of an elder, a figure from his childhood whose story left an indelible mark. This elder's journey began around 1950 when he made the fateful decision to flee to Xinjiang, escaping a harrowing chapter in his family's history.
His father, once a prosperous landowner, found himself trapped in the tumultuous aftermath of the establishment of the People's Republic of China and the sweeping land reform movement. In the eyes of the new order, the wealthy class in China, including his father, bore the guilt of their privilege. Tragically, his father paid the ultimate price, losing his life to the radical shifts of the era. As a family member, the elder had no recourse but to embark on a path of exile, leaving behind his homeland and all that he held dear. The story unfolds through distinct moments, each depicted in the artist's evocative artworks:
Upon his return to Boulder Hill, he embarked on a new chapter in his life. However, his father's history cast a long shadow, and many in his hometown did not welcome him with open arms. Despite the challenges, he built a family, married, and even adopted a daughter whom he named Moon, a poignant testament to his enduring homesickness. Ultimately, his life journey reached its conclusion around the year 2000, succumbing to illness. The artist has drawn upon the accounts of the elder's own recollections, infusing these stories with his own imaginative touch in these five poignant pieces.
