Classical traditions in contemporary art

FROM afar, it looks like a simple Chinese landscape painting. And it is, exceptfor one minor detail - it's made of human hair.

After the initial jolt of surprise, curiosity takes over as you take a close look at what ink made from pulverised human hair looks like, as well as the texture of the green tea paper it's painted on.

US-based Chinese contemporary artist Gu Wenda's 27-metre long work for the upcoming Art Stage Singapore in January has a blockbuster air that …