Journey Out of the Mountains

Prints by Ma Li frequently feature the mountains of his native Yunnan and the ethnic minority groups that inhabit the province. This print presents a passage through mountains; its distorted shapes and perspective, and its deeply saturated colors recall features of European post-impressionist styles. This print won the Copper Prize at the Yunnan Art Exhibition in 1998.

Ma Li grew up during the Cultural Revolution (1966–1976), and at first studied medicine. In the 1980s he abandoned this course of study to become an artist. His interest in medicine continues to be evident in his works, which often blend local folk traditions with influences from European styles.