Renowned painter Charles Meng, originally from Shanghai, is currently showcasing his latest works at the Conduit Gallery in Dallas.
Having obtained degrees both in China and the United States, Meng now splits his time between the two countries, infusing his art with a unique blend of cultural influences, according to the Conduit Gallery.
Over three decades, Meng has wielded his artistry to capture the essence of daily life and his various travel experiences. From the bustling streets of his native country of China to Parisian cafes and landscapes of New England, Meng’s paintings offer viewers a window into the different moments and memories of life around the world.
In his piece from 2022, “Where is My Mother?,” Meng inserts a panda into the iconic tableau from James McNeill Whistler’s renowned painting, commonly known as “Whistler’s Mother.” This balance of elements illustrates Meng’s penchant for integrating references to famous artworks into his own compositions.
Pandas are depicted in various roles across Meng’s portfolio, from leisurely companions or side characters to main protagonists in various scenarios. According to a report from The Dallas Morning News, Meng has expressed a view that Asian imagery can feel unoriginal to him at times, yet he incorporates pandas into his art in unconventional and surprising ways throughout his collection of work.
While Meng primarily creates art for art’s sake, his works often carry subtle social commentary. Through his paintings, he also aims to shed light on global inequality and societal injustice.
Charles Meng’s exhibition, “New Paintings,” is on display at Conduit Gallery until July 6. The gallery, located at 1626 Hi Line Drive in Dallas, welcomes guests from Tuesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call Conduit at 214-939-0064 or visit conduitgallery.com.
Meng has showcased his artwork both abroad and domestically, with exhibitions spanning international venues as well as those within the United States, per the Conduit Gallery. However, the newest collection of work on exhibit at the Conduit Gallery offers Dallas residents a rare opportunity to see the artist’s newest paintings in person.