The ‘Heavy Wounds’ series (1991) represents a formative period for one of Australia’s most prominent contemporary artists. Based on socialist realist posters distributed by the Chinese government during the Cultural Revolution (1966-76), these are some of the earliest works created by Ah Xian after he migrated to Australia. The paintings express his feelings of isolation and trauma, particularly following the June 4 1989 crackdown in Tiananmen Square, Beijing.

Featuring instructions on how to bandage wounds and prevent illness and disease, the paintings repurpose socialist realist imagery in response to the victims of the violent events. ‘Heavy Wounds’ constitutes a point between key stages in Ah Xian’s career, leading to a broad interest in the cultural traditions of his Chinese heritage, as expressed in his signature sculptural busts created from porcelain, lacquer, cloisonné and bronze.

Fourteen paintings from the ‘Heavy Wounds’ series were recently donated to the Gallery’s Collection by Ah Xian, and will be featured in a powerful display in the QAG Watermall, along with other significant works by the artist.

*image (left)
Ah Xian
Heavy wounds series no.8, 1991
oil on canvas
Gift of the artist through the Queensland Art Gallery Foundation 2012.
Donated through the Australian Government’s Cultural Gifts Program
Collection: Queensland Art Gallery
© The artist