For legendary French artist, her work shows courage and curiosity

The works of a legendary French-born and American-raised artist who is widely recognized for her monumental sculptures are currently on show in Beijing for the first time. And this is probably in keeping with the way she felt.

For Niki de Saint Phalle (1930-2002) once said: "I'm condemned to show everything. That is my task."

The former fashion model and housewife found her true identity in teaching herself to paint and to sculpt, and created an oeuvre of works that are full of energy and hope.