Shi Lu - An artist's story of survival

From Voices 28 April 2014

He was sentenced to death for his art and survived to paint on. Shi Lu (1919-82) was one of China’s most renowned masters of modern Chinese painting. Witness to the turmoil of China through its most turbulent revolutions and political times, Shi Lu spoke through his unique artistic vision. Lynda is at the launch of the once-in-a-life-time exhibition currently on display at Te Papa, meeting his daughter Shi Dan and observing the legacy of his extraordinary life and art.

An ancient castle - Courtesy Te Papa

An old horse, Shi Lu - Courtesy Te Papa

Curator Dr Rebecca Rice - Courtesy Te Papa

Fighting in Northern Shaanxi - Courtesy Te Papa

Harvesting the hay - Courtesy Te Papa

Indian mother and child - Courtesy Te Papa

Shi Lu painting, 1981 - Courtesy Te Papa

Te Papa staff installing the Shi Lu exhibition - Courtesy Te Papa

Shi Dan stands next to the painting that nearly cost her father's life

Shi Dan, daughter of Shi Lu

Shi Lu's painting tools on display at Te Papa

Tools of the trade for Shi Lu on display at Te Papa

The images in this gallery are used with permission and are subject to copyright conditions.