Yan Lei

Yan Lei is a bold and provocative figure in contemporary Chinese conceptual art. Educated at the China Academy of Art in Hangzhou (1991), he works across painting, sculpture, installation, video, performance, and photography to interrogate power dynamics, value systems, and artistic contexts . Known for his iconic Color Wheel series, Yan produces works based on algorithmically arranged 360‑colour chromatic grids that probe both aesthetics and automation . His approach often reduces photographs into abstract monochromes, questioning the relevance of representation in the digital age . Yan’s work has been featured at major exhibitions such as Documenta (2007, 2012), Venice Biennale, Gwangju and Istanbul Biennials, and solo shows at UCCA (Beijing), Aspen Art Museum, and Hong Kong Arts Centre . Awarded the Chinese Contemporary Art Award for Best Artist in 2002, his pieces are held in international collections including M+, Centre Pompidou, and Stanford’s Cantor Art Center .