Portraits of the Present

Liu Xiaodong, a leading figure in Chinese Neo-Realism, captures the immediacy of contemporary life through large-scale, en plein air paintings. His works often depict ordinary individuals amidst the backdrop of global issues such as migration, environmental change, and economic upheaval. Employing loose brushwork and rich colors, Liu’s compositions resonate with rawness and authenticity, reflecting his commitment to portraying people as they truly are. In ikonoTV’s Slow Art format, viewers are invited to engage deeply with the nuanced details and emotional depth of his paintings, fostering a contemplative connection with the subjects and their stories.