"As a historical and cultural district of Guangzhou, Liwan District possesses rich Lingnan cultural heritage that inspired me to create sculpture works, which can convey Lingnan culture and value to the world without the need for translation," said Xu Hongfei, the Dean of the Guangzhou Sculpture Academy during the Yong Qing Fang celebrity interviews on March 29 in Guangzhou.

Xu Hongfei at the interview.

As the guest speaker, Xu brought a fascinating discussion on traditional culture and contemporary Chinese art from the perspective of sculpture art during the interview.

Lingnan culture is a significant part of Xu's artworks, and Liwan is where he finds inspiration. "Liwan's traditional culture, with its unique charm and value, is the essence of Lingnan traditional culture. Interesting elements can often be discovered in everyday life, providing me valuable materials and endless inspiration for sculpture creations," he said.

One of Xu's most famous series of artworks, "Fat Ladies," was created in Shamian. "When I came to Shamian Island in 1998, I met a chubby woman who gave me inspiration for this series. I hope to break people's stereotypical impressions of 'Fat Ladies' through this series of works and showcase their unique beauty," he added.

“Fat Ladies”

Up to now, the "Fat Ladies" series has traveled to more than 20 countries with Xu. Since 2013, Xu has brought them to Sydney Opera House Square, Federation Square in Melbourne, Australia, the Louvre Museum in Paris, France, the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, Italy, and London City Hall Square in the UK.

Xu said he experienced huge pressure by setting up exhibitions in Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance. At the opening of the exhibition, the words of the chairman of the local regional council left a deep impression on Xu: "We Florentines have lived in a city so full of art that we have become numb. The works of an Eastern artist awaken us like a breath of fresh air. Now the East has such artists and works, their strengths are what we lack."

In the course of overseas exhibitions, Xu found that people of different beliefs, races, and ages were attracted to his works. "Everyone took photos with my artworks and posted them on social media, indicating that the artworks belong to the world and all humanity," he said.