Find the red figure at Pearse Street and Broome Street in South Cottesloe. View it from the public footpath around the corner.
Wang Shugang is known for groups of almost identical crouching figures, often arranged facing one another as though meeting, talking or simply sharing the same space. Their relaxed poses feel familiar and human, but their repeated forms and vivid red colour make the gathering slightly surreal. Red also carries strong cultural associations with happiness, prosperity and good fortune in China.
Here in Cott, five figures sit in a loose circle on the grass beneath mature Norfolk Island pines near the corner of Pearse and Broome streets. Move around the public verge and the relationships between them keep changing - sometimes they seem to be looking towards one another, sometimes waiting quietly on their own.
The close-up view of a single figure is worth taking in, but don't miss the whole gathering. The surrounding houses, grass and huge pines have become part of the scene, making Meeting 1 feel almost like five unexpected locals having a very long conversation.
Enjoy the work from the public verge and keep neighbouring driveways clear. Further north along Broome Street, Sea Anemone makes a bright and very different companion stop.
Wang Shugang - Pékin Fine Arts