The exhibit in Shanghai aims to shed light on the Chinese master. It is the first comprehensive exhibition of Zhang’s works five decades since his death. (Photo : China Daily)
“The Master of Chinese Modernism Art,” an exhibit that opened in Shanghai on Nov. 20, highlights the important contributions of artist Zhang Guangyu to contemporary Chinese art, China Daily reported.
Zhang, who lived between 1900 and 1965, is known among art enthusiasts as one of the founders of China's first cartoon society.
Despite his many contributions to the Chinese art scene, not a lot of people know about the man considered as China's Walt Disney.
"What Disney did then were the same things that Zhang had done or was doing at the same time," said Li Dajun, an art collector co-curating the exhibit. "The values Zhang created for Chinese art are no less than what Disney did for his land."
The exhibit in Shanghai aims to shed light on the Chinese master. It is the first comprehensive exhibition of Zhang's works five decades since his death.
Over 300 of Zhang's artworks showcasing his creativity and versatility in illustration, design, painting, animation and publishing are included in the exhibit. His works seamlessly portray how Zhang helped Chinese art transition from the classical era to the modern age.
Aside from being one of the founders of China's first cartoon society, Zhang was also at the forefront of the country's commercial art. He authored the first Chinese book on modern industrial art in 1932, and published several art journals later in his life.
"He carved out a name for himself in painting, cinema, stage art, media, furniture and costume design. He loved trying crossover things. He was a master with great vision," said Li.
Before his death, Zhang worked on the characters and settings for the 1960 animation film "Da Nao Tian Gong" or "Havoc in Heaven."
The exhibit will run through Dec. 20.
