Dialogue

What forces continue to oppress and restrain women artists in contemporary China? Some powerful answers are provided in this fictional memoir by Xiao Lu, whose art played a pivotal role in the “China Avant-Garde” exhibition that opened four months before Tiananmen Square erupted in violence. Her dramatic personal story is emblematic of the challenges facing many talented artists in contemporary China.

Xiao Lu studied at the Central Academy of Fine Arts in Beijing and the Hangzhou Academy of Fine Arts. She currently lives in Beijing.

“Xiao Lu’s gunshots challenged the National Art Museum of China. They also challenged the official authorities of the time. This work of art was undoubtedly one of the most iconic works in the history of Chinese contemporary art. I greatly admire Xiao Lu’s rebellious courage and absolutely unyielding dedication.” —Gao Minglu, University of Pittsburgh