Artwork Description

Artist: Jian Guan
Title: Back to Home
Medium: Oil on canvas
Dimensions: 200 x 200 cm
Condition Report: In good condition
Signature: Signed in the lower left corner

A powerful and contemplative portrayal of rural life, Back to Home captures two figures—a man and a woman—viewed from behind as they walk their bicycle across the land after a long day's work. The woman, holding a pitchfork, and her companion are depicted with exaggerated, thickened features that lend them a monumental presence, emphasizing their resilience and dignity. The square format reinforces their imposing stature, making them appear almost too massive for the frame. Rendered in a muted palette of cool blues and earthy sienna tones, the painting conveys a sense of quiet solemnity and deep respect for the laboring class. The desaturated hues and bold, expressive brushwork underscore the emotional weight of the scene, reflecting the artist’s deep connection to his subjects.

About the Artist
Guan Jian (born 1955) is a Chinese artist from Kaiyuan, Liaoning Province, and a graduate of the Oil Painting Department of Lu Xun Academy of Fine Arts, where he now serves as a docent in the Art Education Department. He is also a member of the China Artists' Association. His upbringing in northeastern China profoundly influenced his artistic focus, which centers on the lives of farmers and the working class. Guan’s distinct style features thick, textured brushwork, a restrained color palette dominated by grayish tones, and figures with oversized hands and feet—symbols of strength and resilience. His works have been widely exhibited in major national art exhibitions, including Beijing National Art Exhibition (1974) and The 1st Youth Art Exhibition (1979). His paintings have also been featured in notable publications and auctions, with a strong presence in the contemporary Chinese art scene.