Artist: Cao Jigang

"Even though nothing in this world is perfect, perfection is still worth pursuing." - Cao Jigang

Bluerider ART London·Mayfair presents the first European solo exhibition of Chinese artist Cao Jigang, titled ’Cao Jigang: Skypath‘, opening during London Frieze Art Week. The exhibition showcases Cao Jigang’s recent large-scale tempera Shanshui paintings, which are majestic in scale and presence.

Cao Jigang (China, b. 1955) Born in Beijing, China, graduated from the Oil Painting Department of the Central Academy of Fine Arts in 1984. In 2000, he completed the Material Expression Research Program at the same academy. He has previously taught at the Basic Department of the Sculpture School at the Central Academy of Fine Arts and currently resides and creates art in Beijing. Cao Jigang's artistic journey has evolved through various phases, oil paintings, pencil and acrylic, ultimately delving into the Egg Tempera technique to create large-scale Shanshui. His works are characterized by a unique semi-transparency, a warm, porcelain-like texture reminiscent of jade, achieved through deliberate layering. Expressing the concept of "emptiness" through intentional application, Cao Jigang has recently transitioned towards a minimalist style, opening up a space for contemplation on the connection between heaven and humanity. He received the Silver Award at the 9th National Art Exhibition of China in 1999 and has participated in museum institutions the China National Art Museum and internationally. His works are permanently collected by institutions China National Art Museum, Shanghai Art Museum, as well as by senior collectors in Asia.