Lot 536: Cheung Yee (Zhang Yi) , b. 1936 011119 Poem cast paper on wood

signed in English (lower right), titled in Chinese (lower middle), and dated 011119 (lower left) cast paper on wood

measurements note 122 by 122 cm.; 48 by 48 in.

Hong Kong, Exchange Square, The Rotunda, and iPreciation. The Art of Cheung Yee, August 2008
Taiwan, Jeff Hsu's Art. The Art of Cheung Yee, March 2005
Singapore, iPreciation. The Art of Cheung Yee, 2002

Cheung Yee is a representative figure in the history of Hong Kong's modern art. His sculptures brought the exploration of new medium into a new realm. He is adept at achieving canonicity amidst variations and transformations amidst constants through substitutions of both materials and themes. In this manner, Cheung Yee has been able to frequently generate a new look for his art, making valuable contributions to Hong Kong art. His early works include sculptures using metal, wood, stone and tortoise shell. Starting 1960s, Cheung Yee began developed deep interest in "cast paper" techniques along with further delving into Chinese elements. "Cast paper" involves the making of a lead mould by means of a wooden relief, over which self-made paper pulp is pressed, followed by a covering of fiberglass. When air-dried and uncovered, the result is an extraordinary paper relief. Cheung Yee's inspiration in this new genre was aided by his liking for and studies in ancient Chinese papermaking and printing.