Zhao Guangchen's "Tree of the Future•3" presents us with a unique and thought-provoking artwork. This piece is meticulously framed within an oval composition, offering a distinct perspective on the subject matter. Within this frame, we encounter tree branches from which a pink figure is suspended, creating an intriguing visual tableau. The backdrop is a neutral gray, forming a compelling contrast with the dark branches, the vividly colored figures, and the lush green leaves on the foreground branch.

"The Tree of the Future" is part of a larger project by the artist, delving into profound themes such as belonging, the concept of home, and the rapid transformations occurring in our world.

Details:
Artist: Zhao Guangchen
Title: "Tree of the Future•3"
Date: 2006
Medium: Acrylic on canvas
Dimensions: 100 x 80 cm
Condition Report: Stains in the upper right area, otherwise in good condition.
Signature, Date, and Inscription: Signature and date located in the lower right corner.
Provenance: Private Collection, Jeff Auctions
Published: "Tree of the Future - Collection of Zhao Guangchen's Works", Century Art Gallery, 2007, P.03

About the artist:
Zhao Guangchen (1961-2009) was born in Jilin and graduated from Northeast Normal University in 1968. He played a significant role in the development of contemporary art in Songzhuang, participating in numerous contemporary art exhibitions.

Zhao's art often grappled with pressing global issues such as war, environmental degradation, famine, disease, and terrorism. He raised questions about the future of our planet, especially when the heavy haze of uncertainty is dispelled. His work often carried a sense of urgency, reminding viewers of the challenges humanity faces.

Zhao's creations are multi-dimensional and exist at the intersection of past and future, questioning the potential outcomes of current global problems. He explored themes of memory, introspection, and social responsibility, using his art to express his deep concerns about the state of the world.

Through his thought-provoking artworks, Zhao Guangchen invited viewers to contemplate pressing issues, stirring emotions of melancholy, despair, resentment, and hope. His critical vision and introspection led him to seek answers in the form of artistic expression, conveying the urgency of his concerns through meticulous color schemes, structural layouts, and emotional refinement.

The "Tree of the Future•1" series emerged from his desire to commemorate his hometown river, which had run dry. Zhao's hope was that, one day, this river would regain its vitality. His art serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges we face in safeguarding the future of our world.

Zhao's work may not offer definitive answers, but it undoubtedly touches the hearts of viewers, reflecting his profound journey of self-exploration, experience, and redemption.

Personal Quote (from Zhao Guangchen): "In the spring of 2005, when I was filming in Chaobai River with several painters and friends, I saw this desolate and dry riverbed, but I did not have a single tear to moisten her. So I made an installation work - I planted a dead tree without roots in the sandy soil of Chaobai River. The dead tree was wrapped with white gauze, and many plastic flowers and plastic leaves were tied to the branches. I just want to commemorate the river in my hometown, and hope that she will never stop flowing, and that one day she will recover her former appearance. Later, I painted a lot of paintings on this theme, and the 'Tree of the Future' series was born from this. But the future, I dare not imagine."