One of Shanghai's most successful restaurant owners was passing through Beijing on business when an artistic need stirred her into action. Michelle Garnett, who operates M on the Bund, had seen the work of Beijing artist Wu Yang on a brochure and was determined to own one of her works.

She asked her hotel staff to help locate the painter and soon was riding in a taxi to Wu's small studio. The painting Garnett selected was a detailed piece of cheese, which now hangs on the wall of her Shanghai kitchen.

Somebody should let the Australian restaurateur know that Wu Yang is now serving dessert.

The works featured in Wu's latest exhibition focus on the wonderful world of cakes.

She captures that sponginess, that creamy aroma and the rich textures that make up every bite of one of world's favorite foods.

The artist uses pure colours, thick strokes and bold composition to animate this sweet subject matter and launch it from the canvas.

Art critic Zhang Zhaohui said Wang was one of the hot young Chinese artists to watch.

"A careful observation of her works not only offers one a peaceful mindset, like drinking a cup of fresh spring tea, one can also enjoy the wisdom in her artistic creations," he said.

"For me there is always spiritual enlightenment."

Wu Yang's solo exhibition is being held in the artist community of Songzhuang, which is worthy of a visit.

There are a few coffee shops spread around the galleries to go with Wu Yang's cake.

Patrick Whiteley

May 19-June 15, Image Gallery, Xiaopu, Songzhuang, Tongzhou District, Beijing. 89579965.

(China Daily 05/16/2007 page20)