哪吒 陶 [Nezha], Liu Shiming, 1980. Courtesy of the Liu Shiming Foundation.

The Liu Shiming Art Foundation (LSAF) and Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University have announced the opening of a new exhibition, “Liu Shiming: Life Gives Beauty Form.” The exhibit is on view through September 22 at Mason Gross School of the Arts, 33 Livingston Avenue, New Brunswick.

Featuring more than 80 sculptures made over Shiming’s 60-year career — including 27 works that are being exhibited for the first time in the United States – the exhibit is presented according to themed organizational groupings, namely: Portraits of Family, Student Work and Early Influences, Henan Countryside, Restoration Works, Spirituality, Daily Life, Hybrid Forms, and Animals. The exhibition also includes 12 drawings that illuminate Shiming’s approach to close observational study of the human form and everyday life.

As one of China’s most accomplished and acclaimed artists, Shiming was part of the evolution of Modern Chinese sculpture when more Western styles began to influence centuries-old traditions. Despite garnering early success and recognition, Shiming chose to give up prestige and city life and move to the countryside of China where he turned his attention to capturing the simple moments of daily life experienced by Chinese people.

This exhibition is one of several activations organized by the LSAF and Rutgers University as part of their partnership. Other events include a children’s clay workshop and the announcement of Rutgers’ second recipient of the Liu Shiming Scholarship.

For information on upcoming events at Mason Gross School of the Arts, visit www.masongross.rutgers.edu.