Little Snow

Little Snow

2007
Artist
Li Dafang, Chinese, 1971-
Born: Shenyang, China
Work Locations: Beijing, China
Country
China
Object
painting
Medium
Oil paint on canvas
Accession Number
2015.617
Credit Line
Gift from Vicki and Kent Logan to the Collection of the Denver Art Museum

Li Dafang
Little Snow, 2007
Oil paint on canvas
Gift from Vicki and Kent Logan to the Collection of the Denver Art Museum, 2015.617
© Li Dafang

Dimensions
height: 70 3/4 in, 179.7050 cm; width: 137 3/4 in, 349.8850 cm; depth: 3 in, 7.6200 cm
Department
Modern and Contemporary Art
Collection
Modern and Contemporary Art

With a focus on intertwining reality with literature, Li’s “Little Snow” depicts the classic Chinese story, Outlaws of the Marsh (also called Water Margin). Originating from the 12th century, the tale revolves around a Robin Hood-type character, Song Jiang and his gang of warriors, fighting for their advantage over corrupt officials. In this particular reference, one of the warriors defeats two hired assassins during a snow storm and sets a temple on fire. 

Li translated this story into a contemporary scene of the destruction of one of China’s big cities. Here, we see a building that has been leveled to the first floor, surrounded by rubble and broken pillars. One clearly visible figure and two ambiguous figures sketched with dark brushstrokes are present. These shadowy figures seem to be escaping the scene. A curtain of tiny white specks of snow separates the viewer from the stage-like presentation. 

Li was born in 1971 in Shenyang, China and  currently lives and works in Beijing.

 © Li Dafang

Exhibition History
  • "Half-Life of a Dream: Contemporary Chinese Art from the Logan Collection"-San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, July 10, 2008 - October 5, 2008

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