Xu Hongfei includes instruments in the Chubby Women series because they are integral to the narrative and symbolism of the work. Music is the language of the emotions and appeals...
Xu Hongfei includes instruments in the Chubby Women series because they are integral to the narrative and symbolism of the work. Music is the language of the emotions and appeals directly to the heart. Therefore by portraying the Chubby Women playing instruments, the artist is able to convey their expressive, cheerful and soulful qualities. By creating artworks that free the soul, Xu’s sculptures become relatable to people of different cultures and backgrounds. Moreover, Xu uses a combination of Western and Chinese instruments to emphasise this sense of harmony, such as the piano, pipa, violin, guitar and harp. Additionally, the subject matter of a woman as a musician reflects Xu as a modern sculptor. Additionally, male musicians have been regarded with productive genius, known for their symphonies, operas and oratorios of lasting value. However, through his Chubby Women sculptures, Xu reflects on how women have not been estranged from such musical developments.