Biography

Ma Liuming, born in 1969 in Huangshi, Hubei province, is a prominent contemporary Chinese artist known for his innovative work in both painting and performance art. He gained significant attention for his exploration of public nudity in China, a country where such expressions were heavily censored. Ma Liuming's performances often challenged societal norms and government restrictions, leading to his arrest in 1994. Despite these challenges, he became a key figure in the Beijing East Village art community, which was known for its experimental and avant-garde art forms. Ma Liuming's work is characterized by its provocative nature and its exploration of gender and identity. He created a performance persona named Fen-Ma Liuming, blending male and female elements to challenge traditional gender roles. His 'Baby series', initiated in 2000, features surrealistic paintings where the face of Fen-Ma Liuming appears on infant bodies, evoking both humor and discomfort. Ma Liuming's art continues to push boundaries, inviting audiences to engage with complex themes of identity, sexuality, and societal norms. His contributions to contemporary art are widely recognized, making his works highly sought after by collectors and institutions alike.