Kwai Fung Art Gallery of Hong Kong proudly presents “From the Wall and Further Tales”, the latest exhibition of Italian sculptor Matteo Pugliese in May 2010.

Born in Milan in 1969, Matteo Pugliese showed an aptitude for drawing and sculpture at an early age with works of figures and animals in terracotta. After studying in Cagliari, he returned to Milan to attend university where he received a degree in Modern Literature in 1995.

One of the few contemporary artists who skilfully synthesises classical Italian tradition with contemporary, multi-cultural pop ideas, Pugliese holds a deep love of English literature, animation and science-fiction films that has helped him view the world as a variety of images from which he can express with total freedom.

Passing through the wall as if travelling in a time tunnel between the previous, the present and the next life or traversing between different worldly situations, his striking Sculptures of Man captivate the viewer with deep and exacting defined muscles and bone structures. Crafted from bronze, these figures convey a strong sense of exotic emotion. In contrast, his Women Figures from the Underwater Series appear to defy gravity with slim, streamlined forms that float as if in the safety of amniotic suspension. With out-stretched limbs, these silver-plated bronze sculptures are set against a dark background to invite the viewer into imagination.

In his recent series The Guardians, Pugliese gives his blessing for life with a silent army of bronze and terracotta warriors. Varied geographical origins are presented in facial expression, outfit, and weapon, each different yet united by a controlled strength. Made in bronze these imposing statues stand firm with a solid volume and attention that symbolises peace and protection.

In “From the Wall and Further Tales”, Kwai Fung Art Gallery will present over 35 pieces of the representative works of the artist, including the From the Wall Series, the Guardians Series, the Underwater Series and the Animal Series.