White Cube is pleased to announce representation of Chinese artist Shao Fan (b.1964, Beijing). His first exhibition with the gallery will take place at White Cube Mason’s Yard, London, in spring 2026.
Profoundly influenced by traditional Chinese culture whilst also referencing elements of Western art, Shao Fan’s practice – encompassing ethereal paintings, sculptures and installations – explores the interconnectedness of humanity and nature. His subjects range from depictions of hares, monkeys, whales, fruit and vegetables to the appreciation and aesthetics of oldness, all of which allude to historical Chinese customs and beliefs.
Shao Fan’s understanding of his cultural heritage was shaped by his upbringing in Beijing: both of his parents were renowned artists and professors at Central Academy of Fine Arts and he learnt to paint at an early age. At home, he was surrounded by examples of Ming dynasty (1368-1644) furniture which his parents collected. As an adult, he began reconfiguring discarded chairs into what would become his best-known sculptural forms.
Observing the principles of Tao, Shao Fan often enters into a meditative state when making his work. His monochromatic ink on rice paper paintings arise through an intense period of concentration, whilst his sculptures integrate modern matter and forms with ancient materials and techniques to generate new meaning.
Susan May, Global Artistic Director, White Cube remarks: ‘We are delighted to work with Shao Fan, whose distinct visual language bridges the past and present, aligning perfectly with White Cube’s ethos of making the contemporary historic and historic contemporary. We look forward to introducing his work to new audiences around the world, including his first solo exhibition in the UK at our Mason’s Yard gallery next year.’
Shao Fan’s work is included in the exhibitions ‘Shuimo: Chinese contemporary Ink Painting in the Hunan Timezone’ at Hunan Art Museum, China (21 February – 6 April 2025) and ‘M+ Sigg Collection: Inner Worlds’ at M+, Hong Kong, opening on 27 June 2025, as well as the 15th Shanghai Biennale, Power Station of Art, China (8 November 2025 – 31 March 2026).
Coinciding with Art Basel Hong Kong, an artist talk moderated by Diana Campbell, Artistic Director of Bukhara Biennial, will take place on 29 March 2025, 12.30–1.30pm, in the Auditorium (N101B, Level 1) of Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre, Wan Chai.
The artist’s painting Rabbit 1624 (2024) will be on view at White Cube’s booth during Art Basel Hong Kong (28–30 March 2025, booth 1C23).
Shao Fan is represented by White Cube, Vitamin Creative Space and Galerie Urs Meile.
