The Revolution Continues: New Chinese Art is currently showing at The Saatchi Gallery in London. The art is a fascinating journey into the creative productivity of contemporary artists from China. The work provide interesting insight into the complex forces at work as the Chinese balance rapid growth, new influences on cultural identity, and shifting political and social conditions.

One particular work of art, “Civilization” by Bai Yiluo struck me in its combination of Western iconography to criticize the underlying violence of imperialism. The work would find a contemporary equivalent in the Wilberforce movie, through the scene in which those in power are confronted with the stench of a slave ship in the middle of a violin accompanied cruise along the Thames.

I remember the various strategies the South African government utilized to hide the squalor and violence of Apartheid from the white population. Consistently through out history, imperialism is accompanied by a protective mantel of sanitization that protects the privileged from facing the effects of inequality.

Bai Yeiluo’s installation is striking. The pierced busts are also a frightening visualization of the pent up anger that propels a violent revolution. I feel compeled to respond with public acknowledgement (memory) of the labor of all people, not just those in power or with privilege, and the need to address injustice before it boils over in anger and violence. Jesus held back the hand of the Zealot, but criticized the structures of violence and greed that divided people, proposing a way of life based on redemption, love and service.