Lot 194: Li Wei (b. 1970) , Freedegree over 29th story, Soho, Beijing, 2003

C-type, signed and dated in ink on the image lower right. Number 7 in an edition of 8. Framed.

measurements note 122 x 177 cm (48 x 69¾ in.)

Originally trained as a painter, Li Wei has produced an unsettling series of photographic self-portraits. Reminiscent of Harry Shunk's famous 1960 image of Yves Klein leaping from a high wall, the present photograph is one of a number in which Li Wei seems to free-fall from highrise buildings. These hair-raising performances reflect a sense of lost gravity, as China continues at lightning speed to open itself to the rest of the world.