Martin Cid's Blog: Martin Cid Magazine, page 152

April 30, 2024

“Atlas” Starring Jennifer Lopez Set to Premiere on Netflix in 2024

Netflix has announced the premiere of its highly anticipated sci-fi adventure, “Atlas”, starring Jennifer Lopez. The movie is slated for exclusive release on the streaming platform on May 24, 2024, promising to deliver an action-packed space adventure that explores the complex relationship between humans and artificial intelligence.

Directed by Brad Peyton and penned by screenwriters Aron Eli Coleite and Leo Sardarian, “Atlas” unveils the story of Atlas Shepherd, portrayed by Jennifer Lopez, a brilliant yet misanthropic data analyst with a profound distrust of artificial intelligence. Shepherd’s skepticism towards AI is challenged as she joins a daring mission to apprehend a rogue robot connected to her by a mysterious past.

Atlas (2024)Atlas (2024)

The plot thickens when the mission falters, pushing Shepherd to place her faith in the very technology she fears, in a desperate attempt to safeguard humanity’s future. This narrative not only offers a thrilling cinematic experience but also prompts a deeper reflection on the evolving dynamics between humans and AI.

Backing Peyton’s visionary direction is the cinematographic expertise of John Schwartzman. “Atlas” is produced by an impressive consortium including ASAP Entertainment, Berlanti Productions, Netflix, Nuyorican Productions, Safehouse Pictures, and Schecter Films.

Set in the United States, “Atlas” falls under the sci-fi genre, embellished with elements of adventure and action, specifically emphasizing space exploration. The film seeks not only to entertain but also to engage audiences in contemplating the potential ramifications and ethical considerations of artificial intelligence in modern society.

With Jennifer Lopez at the helm, “Atlas” is poised to captivate Netflix subscribers and sci-fi enthusiasts alike. Mark your calendars for May 24, 2024, and prepare for a space adventure that ventures into the heart of human-AI interaction, only on Netflix.

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Published on April 30, 2024 12:41

“Mufasa: The Lion King” Set to Captivate Audiences with Star-Studded Cast and Riveting Origin Story

The highly anticipated film, “Mufasa: The Lion King,” is slated for a theatrical release on December 20, promising to enchant cinema-goers with the untold origin story of one of Disney’s most revered characters. Directed by the acclaimed Barry Jenkins and utilizing a blend of live-action techniques alongside photorealistic CGI, the film aims to breathe new life into the majestic Pride Lands.

This narrative voyage introduces us to Mufasa as an orphaned cub who finds an unlikely family after a fateful encounter with Taka, a young lion prince destined for greatness. Amid a backdrop of sweeping landscapes, the story unfolds through vivid flashbacks narrated by Rafiki to Kiara, the next generation of the regal lineage. As Mufasa’s tale progresses, viewers are taken on an expansive odyssey that explores themes of destiny, unity, and resilience.

Adding depth and vibrancy to the saga is an ensemble cast featuring Aaron Pierre as Mufasa, embodying the strength and compassion of the future king. Kelvin Harrison Jr. takes on the role of Taka, whose acceptance of Mufasa into his lineage cements the foundation of an unshakeable bond. Tiffany Boone stars as Sarabi, alongside notable performances by Kagiso Lediga, Preston Nyman, and Mads Mikkelsen, among others. The cast also welcomes the talents of Thandiwe Newton, Lennie James, Anika Noni Rose, and the voices of revered actors Keith David, John Kani, as well as Seth Rogen and Billy Eichner returning as the beloved Pumbaa and Timon.

In a landmark casting choice, Blue Ivy Carter steps into the spotlight as Kiara, introducing a fresh voice to the illustrious family tree, with Donald Glover and Beyoncé Knowles-Carter reprising their roles as Simba and Nala, respectively.

Elevating the film’s allure is a musical score that seeks to honor and expand upon “The Lion King’s” legendary musical heritage. Lin-Manuel Miranda joins forces with Mark Mancina and Lebo M., crafting songs that promise to resonate with audiences, young and old. Miranda expressed his enthusiasm and humility about being part of such a storied lineage of music, acknowledging the work of icons like Elton John, Tim Rice, Hans Zimmer, and many others who have contributed to the Lion King’s rich musical landscape.

Produced by Adele Romanski & Mark Ceryak and executive produced by Peter Tobyansen, “Mufasa: The Lion King” not only aims to pay homage to the original film’s legacy but also to forge its path, offering viewers a glimpse into the trials, tribulations, and triumphs that shaped Mufasa into the iconic figure celebrated across the globe.

As December approaches, the anticipation for this cinematic masterpiece continues to build, inviting audiences to experience the Pride Lands like never before. “Mufasa: The Lion King” is more than a movie; it’s a heartfelt expedition into the circle of life, promising an unforgettable adventure.

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Published on April 30, 2024 11:17

Fiasco: A French series on Netflix starring Pierre Niney about the chaotic making of a movie

Netflix introduces Fiasco a French comedy-thriller series drawing viewers into the chaotic world of moviemaking, starring Pierre Niney. Directed by Igor Gotesman, this unique blend of mockumentary, sitcom, and classic comedy offers a satirical take on the film industry, unraveling the complexities behind the scenes of a movie set.

Synopsis of Fiasco

The series centers around Raphaël Valande, an inexperienced director whose ambitious film project spirals into chaos, landing him behind bars. But what exactly went wrong on this ill-fated set? Amid accusations of sexual harassment, an arrogant lead actor, and a mole in the crew, the plot twists through varied historical settings, showcasing the tumultuous nature of movie production.

The Genre: A Mockumentary with a Cinéma Vérité Flair

Fiasco masquerades as a documentary, capturing raw, hand-held footage that blurs the line between fiction and reality—akin to the French ‘cinéma vérité’ movement of the 60s or Denmark’s Dogma films led by Lars von Trier. However, this series thrives on parody, offering a comedic take that touches on various cinematic styles and nods to directors like Kubrick and Tarantino, as well as contemporary hits like “Vikings.” It cleverly engages with hot topics, all while poking fun at the superficial aspects of filmmaking and its stars.

The Cast

At the heart of the narrative is Pierre Niney, playing the role of both director and screenwriter, whose endeavors to salvage his film paint him as a relatable yet comically flawed character, reminiscent of Woody Allen’s awkward charm and Peter Sellers’ clumsy grace. The cast also includes talented actors like François Civil, Géraldine Nakache, and Leslie Medina, with Pascal Demolon portraying a down-and-out producer. Their performances, rich with humor and inspiration, stand out in a series where the craft of acting outweighs cinematic style, even as the latter is continuously lampooned.

Despite anticipation for Vincent Cassel’s involvement, viewers are cautioned that his appearance is minimal.

The Creators: Igor Gotesman and Pierre Niney

Both remembered for their work in “Five” (2016), a comedy that received acclaim for its freshness and boldness, have returned. While Niney charms in front of the camera, Gotesman takes the reins behind the scenes as the director and writer of Fiasco

Fiasco: A Parody at Heart

Designed as a mockumentary, the series aims to entertain, emulating the handheld, candid style of films like “Celebrity” (1996). It diffuses its humor subtly, keeping audiences smiling without resorting to guffaws or outright mockery. In its essence, it parodies filmmaking and the absurdities of production life, maintaining a consistent comic tone throughout its suspenseful yet light-hearted narrative.

Our View: Charmingly Inconsequential

Fiasco comfortably situates itself in the realm of easygoing comedy, embodying the refined and pleasant aesthetic of French cinema with its witty dialogues and carefree outlook on life. It celebrates film as a form of entertainment, devoid of unnecessary complexities, and delivers on its promise of a comedy that’s enjoyable, straightforward, and hassle-free.

Where to Watch “Fiasco”

Netflix

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Published on April 30, 2024 00:55

April 29, 2024

Kaizen Game Works Unveils “Promise Mascot Agency”: A Trailblazing Venture into Open World Mascot Management for 2025

LONDON, United Kingdom, April 29, 2024 – In a remarkable announcement that sets a new precedent in video gaming, the award-winning independent game studio, Kaizen Game Works, is excited to unveil “Promise Mascot Agency.” Scheduled for release in 2025, this game is poised to redefine genre boundaries as the first open-world mascot management crime drama.

Set against the backdrop of a cursed Japanese town, the game introduces players to Michi, a former yakuza lieutenant facing exile. Tasked with transforming a failing mascot agency into a flourishing business, Michi’s struggle for redemption is intricately woven into the fabric of the game’s storyline. Assisting him is Pinky, the Assistant Manager, who is not only a mascot herself but also serves as Michi’s guide through the underbelly of mascot management.

The fictional town of Kaso-Machi serves as the game’s expansive playground, offering players a unique blend of adventure, strategy, and narrative depth. Through Michi’s eyes, players will uncover the town’s secrets, from its dark underbelly to its vibrant street life, navigating challenges with a diverse cast of characters and mascots, each with their own vivid personalities and backstories.

Kaizen Game Works pushes the envelope further by incorporating an innovative gameplay mechanic through “Hero Cards” – cards that embody characters Michi encounters, each offering different forms of assistance to overcome an array of obstacles. This card-based strategy introduces a tactical layer to the game, requiring players to think critically and make decisions that impact the game’s outcome.

A significant highlight of “Promise Mascot Agency” is its collaboration with renowned talents in the gaming industry. The studio has partnered with Ikumi Nakamura, famed for her work on “The Evil Within” and “Ghostwire: Tokyo,” and concept artist Mai Mattori in shaping the game’s world and character design. Additionally, the game’s visual storytelling is brought to life by Inko Ai Takita, a Japanese manga artist whose signature style adds a unique flair to the game’s aesthetic.

Music plays a pivotal role in setting the atmosphere of Kaso-Machi, with Irish musician Alpha Chrome Yayo and Japanese industry veteran Ryo Koike crafting an immersive soundtrack that complements the game’s narrative and action.

“Working with Ikumi, Mai, Kowloon, and our incredible team has been an incredible adventure. We’re thrilled to bring this vision to life and invite players into the world of ‘Promise Mascot Agency.’ It’s more than a game; it’s an experience we believe will set a new standard,” said Oli Clarke Smith, Game Director at Kaizen Game Works.

Rachel Noy, Art Director, echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the team’s dedication to creating a memorable experience for players. Phil Crabtree, Technical Director, highlights the excitement around allowing players to explore the intricately designed world of Kaso-Machi, emphasizing the game’s depth and the rich narrative awaiting gamers.

“Promise Mascot Agency” promises to be a groundbreaking addition to the gaming landscape when it launches on PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and Windows in 2025. With its innovative gameplay, compelling narrative, and immersive world, it aims to captivate gamers across the globe, offering an unparalleled experience that blends strategy, adventure, and heart.

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Published on April 29, 2024 15:00

Katherine Qiyu Su’s Evocative Exhibition at Half Gallery Explores the Space Between Memory and Reality

New York, April 30th, 2024 – Half Gallery is proud to present Katherine Qiyu Su: How Far is the Foreign Lands, running from April 30th to May 25th, 2024. This thought-provoking exhibition, curated by Stavroula Coulianidis, offers an intimate glimpse into the artist’s complex interplay of personal history, nostalgia, and the blurry lines of self-perception.

Born in Beijing in 1999 and now residing in London, Katherine Qiyu Su has cultivated a body of work that transcends geographic and emotional landscapes. Her recent return to painting after an extensive period away from her homeland imbues her work with a sense of longing and introspection that resonates deeply with viewers.

The show features seven paintings that delicately navigate the shadowed realms between established truths and the memories that shape our identities. Su’s unique approach to her craft allows for a multifaceted exploration of how personal and collective reminiscences morph over time, losing their form yet gaining new meanings through subjective interpretation.

Through layers of paint, Su invites onlookers to peel back the veils of her experiences, revealing hidden narratives that hover between fiction and reality. Each piece serves as a testament to her search for identity in a world filled with contradictions, blending fragments of her past into a canvas of potential futures where the impossible becomes tangible.

The exhibition’s reflective quality challenges not only Su’s sense of self but also prompts viewers to consider their relationships with their memories. Su employs organic patterns to guide the viewer through a dance of abstraction and figuration, where emotions dictate the transformation of each vivid motif.

Since earning her BA in Interior Design from the North China University of Technology in 2021 and completing her MA in Painting at the Royal College of Art in London in 2023, Su’s work has gained international attention. Her exhibitions across esteemed venues, including Thom Oosterhof Project and St. Art Gallery in London, as well as engagements in Milan and beyond, have showcased her evolving narrative style and unique visual language.

Katherine Qiyu Su: How Far is the Foreign Lands at Half Gallery not only highlights Su’s artistic evolution but also marks an important contribution to contemporary conversations about identity, place, and the power of memory. Viewers are invited to immerse themselves in Su’s world, where the boundaries of the familiar suddenly dissolve, leaving a space where new connections and understandings can flourish.

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Published on April 29, 2024 14:16

Saxophone Museum in Fiumicino Hosts a Weekend of Jazz and Culture

This coming weekend, the Saxophone Museum in Fiumicino will become a focal point for music enthusiasts as it hosts two days dedicated to celebrating the rich sounds of one of the most revered wind instruments, the saxophone. The events, scheduled for Saturday, May 4th, and Sunday, May 5th, aim to blend music, education, and jazz history in a dynamic showcase.

The weekend kicks off on Saturday at 6:30 PM with a performance by the Jam Session band, an exceptional ensemble comprised of thirteen young musicians. This free concert is open to the public and stands as a homage to the power of music as a universal language, a cultural bridge, and a tool for social integration. Featuring a vibrant and energetic repertoire that includes some of the most celebrated pieces by Duke Ellington, Robert Johnson, Joan Tizol, Dizzy Gillespie, Walter Donaldson, Kansas J McCoy, and Herbie Hancock, the performance is a result of a collaboration with the Jam Session music school, one of the largest and most prestigious in Bologna and the entire region of Emilia Romagna. Reservations for the event are recommended due to limited seating availability.

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On Sunday, May 5th, the museum offers a full day immersed in the world of the saxophone, showcasing over 600 musical instruments from the world’s largest collection of this beloved instrument. This event is part of a unique cultural initiative supported by the Lazio Region, aimed at bringing the museum’s collections to life through guided tours scheduled for 11:00 AM and a special concert entitled “Conversaxioni” at 6:30 PM. This performance combines storytelling, anecdotes, and music, transforming the instruments into narrators of the museum’s genesis and the saxophone’s fascinating evolution. Like the Saturday event, Sunday’s activities are free with the purchase of a museum ticket, and reservations are advised to secure attendance.

The Saxophone Museum stands as a testament to the instrument’s versatile role across musical genres, courtesy of Attilio Berni, the world’s preeminent saxophone collector. Visitors can marvel at rare and unusual instruments, ranging from the diminutive 32cm Soprillo to the colossal Sub-Contrabass J’Elle Stainer, including prototypes by saxophone inventor Adolphe Sax and legendary pieces from Conn, Selmer, and other prestigious manufacturers. Berni’s museum successfully marries history, science, and entertainment, offering a cultural space that resonates with the soulful essence of the saxophone.

image 7 39

Attilio Berni, a renowned saxophonist and clarinet graduate from the “S. Cecilia” Conservatory of Music in Rome, has devoted his life to preserving and researching the saxophone and similar wind instruments since 1993. His work has led to collaborations with notable manufacturers such as L.A. SAX in Los Angeles and Roling’s in Italy, as well as appearances in films and television projects like “The Legend of 1900” by Giuseppe Tornatore and “The Talented Mr. Ripley” by Anthony Minghella. In addition to media contributions, Berni has organized exhibitions and lectures at various conservatories and musical forums across Italy and internationally, further cementing his status as a custodian of saxophone heritage.

This weekend’s events at the Fiumicino Saxophone Museum promise to be an enlightening experience for jazz aficionados, music historians, and anyone intrigued by the cultural impact of this “endoscopic” instrument, which continues to charm and innovate within the global music scene.

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Published on April 29, 2024 12:09

Game Pill Serves Up a Culinary Adventure with “Hangry” at IGN x ID@Xbox Showcase

In an exciting development for fans of innovative gaming experiences, Game Pill has announced the showcasing of their latest creation, “Hangry,” during the much-anticipated IGN x ID@Xbox Digital Showcase. This event is celebrated for spotlighting independent games that push the boundaries of traditional gameplay, and “Hangry” is set to be a standout title with its unparalleled fusion of action RPG elements and culinary exploration.

Hangry” sets players on an interstellar expedition like no other, casting them in the role of a character who is quite literally driven by hunger. This snack ‘n’ slash action RPG mixes intense combat with a whimsical culinary quest across the galaxy. Leveraging the potent Unreal Engine for crisp, captivating visuals, the game takes players through a variety of lush, appetizing worlds, from barbecue-infused forests to sugary caverns. Here, players will engage in high-octane fights, hunting and consuming fantastical creatures to craft exquisite meals.

powderedGame Pill Serves Up a Culinary Adventure with "Hangry" at IGN x ID@Xbox Showcase 4

Mike Sorrenti, President of Game Pill, expressed his enthusiasm about the project, saying, “We were elated to introduce ‘Hangry’ at the IGN x ID@Xbox Digital Showcase. It was a fantastic platform to premiere our original IP, providing a glimpse into the game’s innovative combat system. We’re hopeful it will whet the appetites of RPG aficionados and gamers seeking a dash of humor in their adventures.”

The game promises a fluid, engaging gameplay loop centred on the thrill of the hunt, the joy of eating, and the strategy of evolving the protagonist’s abilities. It positions itself as not only a deeply engrossing experience for RPG enthusiasts but also as an enjoyable endeavor for a wider gaming audience looking for fun and laughter.

A sneak peek via a short gameplay trailer revealed “Hangry’s” dynamic snack n slash combat system that aims to redefine the action RPG genre. With exaggerated, action-packed battles and eye-popping aesthetics, “Hangry” is inviting gamers to partake in a gastronomic voyage that’s set to be far removed from anything they’ve previously savored.

Gamers everywhere should ready themselves for “Hangry,” a title that promises a delicious mix of entertainment, action, and innovation. Stay tuned for more on this appetizing adventure that’s sure to have you coming back for seconds.

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Published on April 29, 2024 11:28

Discover the Mystical Alpine Adventure – Dungeons of Hinterberg Set for Release in July 2024

In an exciting announcement for gaming enthusiasts, Curve Games alongside the innovative team at Microbird, has just revealed the official release date for their much-anticipated title, Dungeons of Hinterberg. Mark your calendars for July 18th, 2024, as this unique blend of Action-RPG and social simulation set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Austrian Alps prepares to make its debut. The game will be launched on multiple platforms including Steam, Xbox Series X|S, Windows 10/11 PC, and is also arriving on Xbox Game Pass for console, PC, and cloud gaming.

Dungeons of Hinterberg offers a refreshing take on the genre by combining thrilling hack ‘n’ slash action and intricate puzzle solving with engaging social elements. Players will have the opportunity to combat the legendary monstrous creatures born from Alpine myths while exploring hidden dungeons. But it’s not all about the battles; making friends and building relationships is equally vital to your success in the game.

To give fans a first-hand taste of this innovative mix, Microbird has announced an exciting pre-release playtest. This is a golden chance for players to explore the charming world of Hinterberg for the very first time, immersing themselves in the initial two days of gameplay. The developers express their enthusiasm about allowing players to experience the world they’ve meticulously crafted and are inviting fans to sign up for this exclusive preview.

Playtest sign-ups are now live on the official Steam product page, with the session scheduled to run from May 9th to May 16th. Participants in the playtest will be among the first to traverse the enchanting mountains and the ominous dungeons that lie within. This experience promises not only thrilling adventures and encounters with mythical creatures but also a leisurely exploration of the game’s beautiful setting—truly, a “Slaycation” like no other.

Players interested in being part of this immersive experience and eager to join the fight against the mystical forces of Hinterberg can view the game trailer and proceed to sign up for the playtest through the provided links.

As the release date draws nearer, the anticipation within the gaming community continues to grow. Dungeons of Hinterberg not only aims to redefine the standards of action and adventure but also seeks to captivate with its unique simulation of social ties, set within the mystical allure of the Alps. Make sure to follow the game’s progress and join in the anticipation of a title that promises an unforgettable adventure.

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Published on April 29, 2024 11:09

Experience the Mesmerizing Works of João Trevisan at RX&SLAG’s Latest Exhibition in Paris – “Strangers at Dawn” Opening on May 4th

João Trevisan is a Brazilian artist. Painted during a Lisbon, Portugal artist residency, Strangers at dawn  consists of two bodies of oil and encaustic paintings: mountainous landscapes and minimalist abstractions. Darkly brooding, yet ethereally glowing, the two bodies of work are mediations on very different geographic terrain: the flat plateau of Brazil’s capital Brasília where he was born and lives, and the mountainous territory of Minas Gerais where his grandparents lived and he would visit as a child.

Trevisan’s landscape paintings Paisagem are meditations on the mountainscapes of the neighboring Minas Gerais, a large inland state in southeastern Brazil, known for colonial-era towns dating to the country’s 18th-century gold rush. These intimate paintings with bodily undertones, suggest the setting of the sun at dusk or a brooding dawn with light peaking through craggy mountain slopes. Speaking of the light in his Paisagem paintings, Trevisan says they suggest “the sunset or the dusk of a sky that seeks to touch the slopes like a last or first touch, contouring the mountains, appealing to the most attentive eyes.”

Trevisan’s minimalist abstract paintings— Intervalos— are based on years of meditative walks along the railroad tracks near his home in Brasília. With dark black backgrounds and vertical lines of different thicknesses and a range of deep, dark color they suggest nocturnes. And almost like a musical sheet where the reading takes place within the empty space, Trevisan’s geometric paintings are structured with intervals.  For the artist, “they are like a body of introspection, geared towards a metaphysics, as suggested by their luminosity, open to the external… A silent meditative gaze, like the walks I enjoy taking along the railway.”

The two João Trevisan painting series Paisagem and Intervalos are made in a painstaking process of applying and burnishing layer upon later of oil and encaustic, resulting in a sensual surface in which natural light seems to be captured and refracted. Numerous references to contemporary as well as historical painting come to mind, but their sensual and brooding presence is so very contemporary.

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Published on April 29, 2024 02:22

Fong Chung-Ray’s Major Retrospective at UMAG, University of Hong Kong

Fong Chung-Ray’s major retrospective “Abstract Evolutions: Sixty Years of Paintings by Fong Chung-Ray” will be presented by the University Museum and Art Gallery, The University of Hong Kong from 3 May to 18 August 2024.

Born in China’s Henan province into a family of accomplished scholars and artists, Fong Chung-Ray was exposed to the learning and appreciation of fine arts since childhood. However, the civil wars and foreign invasions ensued, which led to him joining the military and later moving to Taiwan as a teenager. Thereafter, Fong became inspired by abstract expressionism, which he firmly believes is the closest movement spiritually to traditional Chinese paintings, and has invariably remained significant throughout his artistic career, comprising of a wide range of styles and medium.

image 7 33“1969-42”, Acrylic and Ink on Paper, 41 x 81 cm, 1969

Fong Chung-Ray’s affinity for the abstract could well be rooted in the Chinese literati tradition, where his inner experience and personal response to the world take precedence. His work reflects this philosophical underpinning, seeking to convey the underlying spirit of his subjects through abstraction rather than to depict their outward forms.

image 7 34“1978-01”, Acrylic on Canvas, 91 x 122 cm, 1978image 7 35“1994-21”, Mixed Media on Paper, 75 x 97 cm, 1994

In 1989, Fong Chung-Ray developed a technique in which he applied acrylic onto plastic sheets with the resulting designs transferred onto paper. Evidently, works made during this period are marked by a transition from his previous fluid, natural landscapes to harsher, man-made scenery, reflecting his shifting views on the evolution of mankind, ultimately representing the passage of time. The multi-layered concoction of materials immediately conjures visions of flaking paint, scratches, and torn paper, all layered over writing, revealing details that goes beyond external presentation.

image 7 36“2016-7-27”, Acrylic on Canvas, 227.5 x 381 cm, 2016

Fong Chung-Ray has played a crucial role in fostering cultural exchange between China and the West, and his artworks have introduced richly diverse artistic traditions, techniques and themes to international audiences, promoting a deeper understanding and appreciation of Chinese culture.

“2018-11-30”, Acrylic on Canvas, 148.5 x 169 cm, 2018

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Published on April 29, 2024 01:14

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Martin Cid
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