German artist's Shanghai show to explore human existence

German figurative painter Jonas Burgert says he finds it interesting not to show the things that have already been there, but what things imply and indicate.

"I try to see what is behind the people around me and what is behind the surface," he says.

Burgert's solo exhibition, set to open on July 31 in Shanghai, will reflect his examinations of the existence and emotions of humankind in contemporary life.

Titled Blüht und Lügt (Blooms and Lies), the exhibition will held at the Long Museum's West Bund space, and feature paintings and sculptures in which Burgert depicts mystical scenes of human figures wearing odd costumes and makeup. By creating a compelling visual impact, Burgert presents to the audience a lens through which they can journey to the deepest parts of individuals, and explore how they struggle for a balance between their inner reality and the outside world.