Li Lihong (born 1974) is a Chinese contemporary artist. He is known for his innovative porcelain sculptures that blend traditional Chinese craftsmanship with modern Western iconography.

Early life and education

Li Lihong's was born in 1974 in

Jingdezhen Jingdezhen is a prefecture-level city in eastern Jiangxi province with a total population of 1,669,057 (2018), bordering Anhui to the north. It is known as the "Porcelain Capital" because it has been producing Chinese ceramics for at least 1,0 ...

, China. This city has been celebrated for centuries as a hub of fine porcelain production, historically supplying royal collections and exports. Under the mentorship of ceramic master Qin Xiling, Li honed his skills in traditional porcelain techniques. He pursued formal education at the China Central Academy of Art and Design in

Beijing Beijing, Chinese postal romanization, previously romanized as Peking, is the capital city of China. With more than 22 million residents, it is the world's List of national capitals by population, most populous national capital city as well as ...

, earning his Bachelor of Fine Arts in 1996. Later, he obtained a Master of Fine Arts from the Jingdezhen Ceramics Institute in 2005.

Career and practice

Li's artistry is distinguished by his fusion of classic Chinese porcelain art with globally recognized symbols. His works reinterpret iconic logos—such as

McDonald's McDonald's Corporation, doing business as McDonald's, is an American Multinational corporation, multinational fast food chain store, chain. As of 2024, it is the second largest by number of locations in the world, behind only the Chinese ch ...

arches,

Apple An apple is a round, edible fruit produced by an apple tree (''Malus'' spp.). Fruit trees of the orchard or domestic apple (''Malus domestica''), the most widely grown in the genus, are agriculture, cultivated worldwide. The tree originated ...

's apple, and the

Nike Nike often refers to: * Nike, Inc., a major American producer of athletic shoes, apparel, and sports equipment * Nike (mythology), a Greek goddess who personifies victory Nike may also refer to: People * Nike (name), a surname and feminine giv ...

swoosh—through the lens of traditional Chinese aesthetics. This juxtaposition comments on the intersection of Eastern and Western cultures in the context of globalization. Throughout his career, Li has showcased his sculptures in numerous exhibitions worldwide. Notably, his work was featured in the "Breaking the Mold" exhibition at the Dennos Museum in the United States in 2009. He has also participated in significant art fairs, including the Armory Show and SOFA New York in 2011. Li's unique approach has garnered attention from various art institutions and galleries. His pieces have been displayed at ART LABOR Gallery in Shanghai, where he presented a solo exhibition titled "Merry Christmas - China" in 2007. Additionally, his works have been part of group exhibitions such as "CHINA NOW" at Canvas International Art in Amsterdam. Currently residing in Shanghai, Li continues to create art that bridges traditional Chinese porcelain techniques with contemporary themes.

References

{{Reflist Living people Contemporary artists 1974 births