Wang Keping is one of the most regarded sculptors today. His wood carvings are deeply personal as he searches the being within his blocks of trees through its natural nooks, knots and branches that emerge through his guidance into women, couples, mother with child and figures. He is so in tune with his material that he calls it a collaboration of what the wood gives to him and how he allows it to guide his hand. Once complete he creates a chocolatey surface from burning and burnishing his works that gleam with a sensuality and tactility that ripples in luminosity. Wang Keping was born in China and moved to France in 1984 where he lives and works. He recently was invited to exhibit at the Musée Rodin and is having a solo exhibition at the Musée Guimet.

His works are in the collections of the Musée National d’Art Moderne/Centre Georges Pompidou, Paris; the M+ Uli Sigg Collection, Hong Kong; the Fukuoka Asian Art Museum, Fukuoka, among others. Wang Keping was awarded by France with Chevalier de L’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres for his artistic contribution.

Wang Keping, celebrating his 75th birthday in 2024, finds the essence or vitality of his creations residing within the very wood he works with. His journey as a wood sculptor began four decades ago, when he was a spirited young individual in China, fighting alongside his comrades for the freedom to express contemporary art. Today, he stands as a master, a wise sage, and a philosopher, finding everything he needs within the confines of his garden. He has honed a distinctive style that at times feels intimate and flowing and at other times can elucidate a crude and primitive nature. He skillfully displays forms within forms and devises subtle slashes to evoke a certain emotion, a humorous gesture or a provocative intention.