Artwork Description

Title: Heritage - Material Series No. 2
Artist: Shengwen Yu
Date: Undated
Medium: Mixed media
Dimensions: 70.87 × 31.50 in (180 × 80 cm)

1. Artwork Identification
Heritage - Material Series No. 2 by Shengwen Yu is a large-scale mixed media work depicting a female figure rendered with delicate, flowing lines and soft tonal transitions. The subject appears in traditional East Asian attire, characterized by voluminous robes and stylized hair. The composition conveys elegance and serenity through its subtle color palette and controlled brushwork.

2. Artistic Style and Influences
The piece demonstrates a synthesis of contemporary mixed-media techniques with classical East Asian aesthetics, particularly reminiscent of nihonga or Chinese guohua traditions. Shengwen Yu’s approach reveals an engagement with cultural symbolism, combining traditional motifs with a modern visual language that emphasizes texture and materiality.

3. Historical Context
Created in the context of contemporary Chinese art’s dialogue with heritage and modernization, this work reflects a broader trend of reinterpreting classical forms in the 21st century. The focus on traditional dress and posture speaks to ongoing cultural negotiations—how identity, memory, and global visual culture intersect in a rapidly evolving society. Artists like Yu explore these tensions through layered materials and hybridized techniques.

4. Provenance and Authenticity
Please contact the gallery directly for provenance details and certificates of authenticity.

5. Condition and Conservation
The mixed media surface appears stable with no observable discoloration, detachment, or cracking. Given the potential presence of delicate papers or pigments, conservation care should include low-humidity storage and avoidance of direct UV exposure.

6. Artistic Significance
This work exemplifies Shengwen Yu’s ability to navigate between reverence for traditional aesthetics and contemporary innovation. Its large scale and refined execution enhance its presence, making it an important piece for collections focusing on modern reinterpretations of cultural heritage.