Chang Chia-Chu (Zhang Jiaju)

wood incised in Chinese and dated 2015

Taiwan, Taipei, Piao Piao Gallery, Chang Chia-Chu: Traces, 24 November - 12 December, 2015, p. 9.

Overall in good condition. The perforated and brittle condition is inherent to the material used and the artist's intention.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

As a graduate from the sculpture department of the Tainan National University of the Arts, Chang Chia-Chu created his Skin sculpture series to depict the human form in an evocative manner that underlines the transience of human life. Beginning in 2005, the artist moved away from using stone materials and focused on wood as his main medium. Embracing the uneven textures of aged and decayed wood, Chang enhances the material’s intrinsic properties in his sculptural forms. As realised in the present lot and Inside and Out (lot 2907), the artist’s signature of enhancement of perforated surfaces reveals human forms with a hollow and delicate appearance, suggesting the impermanence of the body and the inevitability of mortality. In the humanist tradition, Chang exhibits a commitment to deriving meaning from the natural world and a sensitivity to his materials that is beyond skin-deep.