Wang Qingsong – CityWeekend
2003Wang Qingsong whimsically comments on modern Chinese life in his works “Requesting Buddha No.1” and “Catcher.” Blending elements of pop culture, religion consumerism, and nationalism, his self-phzotographs depict him as a Buddha and a Christ figure. In “Requesting Buddha No.1” he is perched atop a Coca-Cola throne, holding a Yanjing Beer in his hand while nine hands shoot up holding items like Marlboros, Kodak film, American and Chinese cash, and the Chinese flag. In “Catcher,” he is crucified on a Coca-Cola cross while Motorola mobile phones in the shape of butterflies buzz around him. Wang isn’t necessarily dissing consumer culture. “I like Coca-Cola, actually,” he said. “Modern culture is good, but it doesn’t mean that every aspect of modern life should be appreciated.”