Biography
Tseng Kwong Chi was a Hong Kong-born American photographer, renowned for his unique and thought-provoking work that captured the cultural and social landscapes of the 1980s. Born on September 6, 1950, Tseng moved to the United States, where he became an influential figure in the East Village art scene in New York City. His photography is characterized by a blend of performance and portraiture, often featuring himself in a Mao suit and mirrored sunglasses, exploring themes of identity, politics, and cultural displacement. Tseng's most notable series, "East Meets West," also known as the "Expeditionary Series," features self-portraits taken at iconic landmarks around the world. These images challenge perceptions of cultural identity and the exoticization of the East by the West. His work is celebrated for its wit, humor, and critical engagement with contemporary issues, making it highly sought after by collectors and institutions. Tseng's legacy continues to influence contemporary photography and art discourse. His work is included in major collections and has been exhibited internationally. Tseng passed away on March 10, 1990, but his innovative approach and exploration of cultural themes remain relevant and impactful. His contributions to art and photography are recognized for their boldness and originality.
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Biography
Tseng Kwong Chi was a Hong Kong-born American photographer, renowned for his unique and thought-provoking work that captured the cultural and social landscapes of the 1980s. Born on September 6, 1950, Tseng moved to the United States, where he became an influential figure in the East Village art scene in New York City. His photography is characterized by a blend of performance and portraiture, often featuring himself in a Mao suit and mirrored sunglasses, exploring themes of identity, politics, and cultural displacement. Tseng's most notable series, "East Meets West," also known as the "Expeditionary Series," features self-portraits taken at iconic landmarks around the world. These images challenge perceptions of cultural identity and the exoticization of the East by the West. His work is celebrated for its wit, humor, and critical engagement with contemporary issues, making it highly sought after by collectors and institutions. Tseng's legacy continues to influence contemporary photography and art discourse. His work is included in major collections and has been exhibited internationally. Tseng passed away on March 10, 1990, but his innovative approach and exploration of cultural themes remain relevant and impactful. His contributions to art and photography are recognized for their boldness and originality.
Track Tseng Kwong Chi
Get notifications when works come to auction, and access market analytics
Create Free AccountAlready have an account? Sign In
Professional documentation gives you clarity, portability, and confidence in your collection.
Learn why collectors document their holdings onlineYour collection, accessible anywhere
Access your collection from any device with our cloud-based platform. Native mobile apps provide seamless synchronization and offline browsing, ensuring your collection data is always at hand.