Year: 2017
Medium: oil on canvas
Dimensions: 71 x 50 x 13 cm (28 x 19 5/8 x 5 1/8 in.)
Acquired from SBI Art Auction, 2022
This work exhibits ebbing-and-flowing undulations in crimson color. In the "Under Heaven" series, which includes this work, is created by squeezing out the oil paint packed in a piping bag, just like decorating a cake. As the artist himself advocates and produces art projects with reference to new pop art, Xu Zhen® visualizes the violence derived from consumption culture and mass production. Consumption generates massive amounts of waste and resource depletion. The cream-like frosting made of paint seems to serve as a metaphor for one’s vanity-seeking for being flattered by the act of consuming. The flamboyant color and the fascinating appearance indeed evoke the desire of consumption. The design of the cake is focused not only on the taste, but also on its appearance. The title "Under Heaven" corresponds to the Chinese word “tianxia” (天下), which also means "in the whole world" in Japanese. As the title reveals, this work is believed to be influenced by “Made in Heaven” by Jeff Koons, a beloved artist (also a problem child) of the contemporary art market who came earlier than Xu Zhen®︎. This work challenges the fundamental desire for erotism and consumption culture, as well as the sweet decoration - the taboo of emotions and wealth that lies underneath.
