Zhang Hongtu
b. 1943, Pingliang, China
Mao's Quaker Oats Box #1, 1988
Mixed media on paper tube
Courtesy Asian American Art Centre and Think!Chinatown

China-born, New York-based artist Zhang Hongtu’s Mao Quaker Oats Box #1 features an image of Mao Zedong painted on a cylindrical Quaker Oats container. Zhang is known for his satirical works of art featuring the former Chinese political leader. Adopting a Pop art aesthetic, Zhang combines political portraits with non-traditional, everyday materials, such as cereal cartons. His work serves as a reflection on his desire to pursue artistic freedom in New York City. Mao Quaker Oats Box #1 was created twelve years after the death of Mao Zedong and amidst a growing, global Chinese economy.