Artwork Description

Title: Untitled 2
Artist: Guo Wei
Date: 2012
Medium: Oil on canvas
Dimensions: 19.7 x 19.7 in (50 x 50 cm)

Artwork Identification:
Rendered in a flattened, stylized palette of tonal gradations, Untitled 2 by Guo Wei captures the profile of a young girl set against a textured, monochromatic background. The image is fragmented with deliberate drips and overlays, evoking both detachment and subtle emotion. The work forms part of Guo Wei’s ongoing investigation into youth, identity, and psychological introspection.

Artistic Style and Influences:
Guo Wei’s technique merges elements of photo-realism with graphic abstraction. In this painting, he uses a sharply limited color palette and digital-like flatness to explore the inner world of his subject. The downward gaze of the child and compositional isolation reflect his interest in psychological tension, shaped by influences ranging from Chinese social realism to global contemporary portraiture.

Historical Context:
Created in 2012, this work continues Guo’s engagement with themes of adolescence and the alienation faced by younger generations in modern Chinese society. Coming out of the post-1980s avant-garde and New Wave movements, Guo’s practice confronts the emotional voids left by rapid urbanization and the collapse of traditional collectivist values.

Provenance:
Provenance documentation can be provided upon contact.

Condition and Conservation:
The artwork is in very good condition, with no visible signs of damage or restoration. The surface is stable, and the paint application remains clean and vibrant.

Artistic Significance:
Untitled 2 is a striking example of Guo Wei’s signature style—emotionally muted yet psychologically charged. The work’s quiet power lies in its ability to suggest both intimacy and estrangement, making it a compelling piece for collectors of Chinese contemporary art who seek portraits that transcend individual identity to address collective experience. This painting stands as a testament to Guo's sensitivity and insight in portraying the silent complexities of youth.