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Zhang Dali's 'AK-47' (2009) is a screenprint in colors on wove paper that confronts themes of identity, propaganda, and militarism. The artwork features a haunting portrait composed of repetitive text spelling 'AK-47,' symbolizing the infamous assault rifle associated with global conflict. The words densely overlap, creating a grayscale tonal effect that gradually reveals a face, possibly that of a soldier or revolutionary figure, blending individuality and anonymity. The meticulous layering of the text underscores the pervasive influence of violence in modern society while questioning the human cost of political and ideological systems. Measuring 48 x 40 inches for the image and 54 1/2 x 46 3/4 inches with margins, this work is part of an edition of 60, signed and dated by the artist. It was published by Pace Editions, Inc. and is framed for preservation and display.

Zhang Dali (China, 1963) is a multifaceted artist known for his graffiti, sculpture, photography, and installations. A pioneer in Chinese street art, he critically examines urbanization and social change. His 'Dialogue and Demolition' series features graffiti silhouettes on condemned buildings, highlighting rapid urban transformation.

Zhang Dali

AK-47, 2009

Form

Limited Edition Print

Limited Edition PrintA limited edition print is one of a number of prints made at the same time from one printmaking plate. A fixed number are made and signed by the artist, indicating the printing order, using the format 1/10, meaning first of ten prints.

Medium

Screen-print

Screen-printScreen printing is a technique where ink is transferred through a mesh onto a substrate, with areas blocked by a stencil to prevent ink from passing through. This method, also known as serigraphy or silkscreen printing, is commonly used to produce prints on posters, T-shirts, vinyl, stickers, wood, and other materials. The process is a type of stencil printing, allowing for vibrant, detailed designs on various surfaces.

Edition

Edition of 60 + 20 AP

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Zhang Dali

AK-47, 2009

Limited Edition Print

Screen-print

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In 2000 I started the series AK-47. At the time I thought I was expressing the violence to which people are subjected to in society because of inequality.
- Zhang Dali

Zhang Dali is a Chinese artist and sculptor who specializes in graffiti art. He studied painting at the Central Academy of Fine Arts in Beijing, and then moved to Italy where he delved into his trademark medium. Zhang Dali's art was unique in China, as there weren't many graffiti artists there in the 1990s. In the mid-90s, he became known for spray painting profiles of himself onto buildings in Beijing that were marked for demolition. Zhang Dali's work often makes cultural and political statements, and he has created many portraits for the purpose of documenting social history and cultural development. This is the case with "Chinese Offspring", one of Dali's most famous pieces that is comprised of 100 resin sculptures of migrant workers. Zhang Dali has the distinction of being featured on the cover of TIME Magazine. His art has been exhibited worldwide in galleries and museums including Beijing's Courtyard Gallery, Kiang Gallery in Atlanta, Georgia, Magda Danysz Gallery in Paris, and New York's Museum of Modern Art. (Artist website)

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Artwork by Mr Brainwash

What is graffiti art?

Graffiti art refers to drawings and writings that are painted, scratched, or scribbled on walls or other surfaces, typically in public spaces. This art form ranges from small tags to elaborate wall paintings. Graffiti has been in existence since ancient times, with examples dating back to the Roman Empire, Ancient Greece, and Ancient Egypt.

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Zhang Dali

AK-47, 2009

121.9 x 101.6 cm

Language & Currency

Zhang Dali