Fei Dawei

Fei Dawei (费大为, born 1954, Shanghai, China) is a prominent independent art critic, curator, and art consultant based in France. He is widely regarded as a key figure in introducing contemporary Chinese art to the international art world.

Fei Dawei studied at the Shanghai International Studies University, graduating in French. His involvement in the Chinese art scene began in the 1980s, a period of significant artistic experimentation and liberalization.

He played a crucial role in organizing the landmark exhibition "Magiciens de la Terre" (Magicians of the Earth) at the Centre Pompidou in Paris in 1989. This exhibition was groundbreaking for its inclusion of contemporary artists from around the world, including several from China, effectively bringing them into the global art conversation.

Fei Dawei has curated numerous exhibitions both in China and internationally, showcasing the work of contemporary Chinese artists and fostering cross-cultural dialogue. He has also written extensively on contemporary art, providing critical analysis and insights into the development of the Chinese art scene. He served as the artistic director of the Ullens Center for Contemporary Art (UCCA) in Beijing from 2008 to 2011, a significant institution in the Chinese contemporary art landscape. His work continues to influence the understanding and appreciation of Chinese contemporary art on a global scale.