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Hailed as "The Mother of French New Wave," Agnès Varda's new exhibition in China reveals far more than her identity as a filmmaker: the unique retrospective sets out to be a broader showcase of her powerful aesthetics as a filmmaker, photographer and installation artist.

In her early years, Agnès Varda studied and practiced photography. In 1954, she made her film debut with La Pointe Courte, which pushed the boundaries of traditional film-making. It was later considered to be a precursor to the "New Wave" revolution for its ground-breaking concepts, formula and execution. Agnès Varda also stood out as the only female filmmaker in this cultural revolution.

"New Wave" and "Femininity" have brought distinctive cultural significance and artistic perspectives to Agnès Varda's work. As the creator of the concept of "film narrative," she explores the randomness of events, coincidence, desire, need and alienation in her film narratives, while her style highlights the tension between realist documentation and poetic imaginaries. As a "female director," her films express a deep passion and hope for life. With great sensitivity, visual exploration and subtle narrative drive, she depicts the world of women with sharp and daring yet polished touches. Her most memorable heroines are the ones who take control of their own fates, and pursue their freedom fearlessly in life. The films reveal their social idealism, their loneliness and anxiety, as well as a true vitality and optimism. For this reason, Agnès Varda has been called a "great, yet down-to-earth" filmmaker and woman.

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In recent years, Agnès Varda continues to draw inspiration from her experience as a filmmaker and photographer in voyaging into new artistic realms. A highlight of her exhibition in China, the photography/installation art piece "China Gate" is testimony to the endless creativity of this 83-year-old artist.

We would like to thank Agnès Varda for visiting China. Your visit will be wonderful stimulus to the new era of filmmaking in China as we reflect on and learn from your work.

We would also like to thank the French Institute in China, and all other organisations and individuals that have contributed to the success of this exhibition.

Wang Huangsheng

Director

Art Museum of the China Central Academy of Fine Arts