Profile
Li Xianting (1949-2021) was a critic and curator based in China. Known for his role in the development of contemporary Chinese art. Originating from Shandong province and primarily active in Beijing, Li was often heralded as the "Godfather" of Chinese contemporary art. His critical writings and curatorial projects helped to spotlight avant-garde practices during a transformative era in China's cultural landscape.Li's career was distinguished by his advocacy for 'Cynical Realism' and 'Political Pop' - movements that emerged after the 1989 Tiananmen Square protests, reflecting artists' skeptical views on social changes in China. He was instrumental in organizing groundbreaking exhibitions such as the China/Avant-Garde Exhibition in 1989, which significantly propelled the visibility of Chinese artists internationally. His efforts not only nurtured a new generation of Chinese artists but also linked them to global art networks. Li's impact extended beyond exhibitions, as he founded the Songzhuang Art Museum and the Li Xianting’s Film Fund, which supports independent Chinese filmmakers. His contributions have been recognized in major international venues, including the Venice Biennale and the São Paulo Art Biennial.
