From Xian, China to Upfront, Penrith!

Original Chinese Paintings by Milly (Mrs Shang Chaofeng)

This exhibition of Milly’s work has been brought to us by John Keith, local art collector, who is an Upfront Gallery supporter and introduced us to Milly’s work a few years ago. He dubbed Chaofeng ( Milly, in English), “The Chinese Modigliani”. She was unaware who Modigliani was until he sent her a book of Modigliani images. Not speaking Mandarin, John solved how to communicate with Milly. During the past 5 years Milly’s art has continued to develop, and John has worked out how to buy, pay for and get delivery of her work.

Largely self-taught, Milly’s work features almost entirely women, in social meetings, or a mum with children. They are all set in a stylish period China, many with cats. Each work is totally original and she works daily, unless she is in her small gallery in the Art Quarter of Xian, the Chinese city famous for the Terracotta Warriors.

All paintings are for sale at £299. Framed in England using non-reflective glass.

Milly’ story in her words:
“My name is Chaofeng Shang, born on 16th Nov 1953 in Xi’an, Shanxi.

I went to Guomian Forth Factory Primary School, and then studied in Xi’an 18’s High School. I started my first job in Xi’an Hardware and Electrical Company as a sales representative in 1970. I was then promoted to Sales Manager.

In 1996, as a result of Chinese Structural Reform, I was made redundant, so I started my little gallery in Beilin, Xi’an. This was when I started learning framing paintings, and became very interested in painting. I then went to study Chinese Painting.

My current painting style is influenced by Chinese traditional ink painting. Painting is the love of my life and each one of my works is the reflection of my passion”.