A carefree day of frolicking and battling bustling Bali traffic. The end of a noticeably full day of sun and fun. To suddenly find yourself gazing at two striking yet toy-like militant figures that seemingly commanded attention. Sculpted with open mouths as if to whisper tales of revolution and resilience. The sign read “Red Guard Series by Jiang Shuo”

The Red Guard Series – An exhibited in the lobby of Beachwalk Residence in Kuta Bali

Who Were The Red Guards

Mobilized in 1966 -1976 by Mao Zedong, with an aim to enforce communist ideology. This was executed by targeting perceived enemies of the state, including intellectuals, traditional cultural elements and political dissidents. Predominantly a student-led paramilitary social movement. The movement brought chaos, social disruptions and destruction of cultural legacies. The Chinese government disbanded the Red Guards in 1968.

The Sculptor of the Red Guard Series

The sculptor is, Jiang Shuo a former Red Guard, now 66 years old. Renown for her ability to blend history, emotion and art into powerful pieces that speak volumes without saying a word. Her sculptures capture the spirit of the Red Guard movement during China’s Cultural Revolution.

Encountering these guards will leave you pondering on the complex ideology and identity of the artist as she was also a Red Guard.