WEN WU – DECADENT DYNASTY ( 26TH MAY– 26th JUNE 2010)

Wen Wu's inspiration has developed since she was a little girl. Initially she was captivated by female beauty, now her work explores young men through the eyes of her alter ego, a timeless middle aged, gay man.

For this exhibition Wen is continuing to develop fresh techniques and maintains a dynamic practice while exploring new approaches. She combines classical Chinese methods and Western stylistic devices in a contemporary style. Wen joins perspectives from different histories and cultures with a result that she calls ‘the beautiful'. In her latest series of paintings - ‘Decadent Dynasty', Wen is reflecting on her Chinese roots and her culture's attitude to love.

Whilst visiting China, Wen documented what she describes as ambiguous atmospheres; such as Dong Dan park in Beijing – a traditional place for gay men meet. She was inspired by the way that the men, in search of a partner, seemed to drift around the little hill in the park, like lost souls. She has also been inspired by the Chinese novel – ‘Dream of Red Chamber'. Her most recent large scale painting (450cm x 240cm) reflects this, creating an ideal dream space based on the interior garden described in the novel, inhabited by more than 50 figures transposed from the hill in Dong Dan Park.

Wen's passion for film is currently manifested as an installation comprising a story board of 12 paintings, together with a large scale work, forming a poetic narrative. The first group of images as an introduction, affording the audience a way to enter into the main feature, with the second group consummating the piece. This being said, each piece also stands up as an accomplished artwork in its own right.

Sartorial is opening its door to tell the story of Wen Wu while the artists opens her heart to tell you about ‘the beauty' in a enchanting, romantic and exquisite way.