The artwork “Председатель Мао с нами” by Zeng Fanzhi is part of his “Mao” series. This piece features eight figures standing closely together against a bright yellow background, all donning exaggerated, unsettlingly uniform smiles that create an eerie atmosphere. The figures appear to be children or young people, and their stylized, mask-like faces contrast sharply with the more detailed, almost grotesque rendering of their hands and clothing, evoking a sense of collective identity and conformity under a scrutinized facade. The use of vivid colors and striking expressions underscores the artist’s commentary on societal dynamics and historical context.
