Mao Tongqiang was born in Yinchuan, Ningxia, in 1960. After graduating from Ningxia University, Mao Tongqiang pursued advanced studies at Zhejiang Academy of Fine Art (now China Academy of Art) between 1984 and 1986. Currently residing in Yinchuan and Beijing, he has been focusing on the meaning of human life amidst social changes since the 1990s. His series “Archives of Death” reflects his sensitivity and concern for people, society, and politics.
Mao Tongqiang’s subsequent works became increasingly diverse. Through pieces like I Have a Dream, Family, Archives and Order, he used archaeological field research techniques to create each artwork that has deep connections with contemporary Chinese society.