Border Crossings: From Imperial to Popular Life

This exhibition explores the question of how the boundaries between social classes and identities are challenged and transcended.

January 30–August 4, 2013

Madeleine H. Russell Gallery

How are the boundaries between social classes and identities challenged and transcended? This exhibition explores that question. Eighteenth-century Chinese paintings demonstrate how artists outside palace walls reproduced the subject and styles of imperial court paintings in order to fulfill commissions by patrons of a rising social class. Japanese woodblock prints examine how cross-dressing actors in Kabuki theater became trendsetters for the world off-stage. And through his photographs, Chinese contemporary artist Cang Xin steps into different professions and identities. Forty-four works on display.