Catalogue of joint exhibition at Tate Liverpool in 2007. The exhibition comprises a majority of works that are either shown for the first time outside of China, or were specially commissioned for the exhibition. The title, The Real Thing can be taken as an indication that the exhibition is a reflection of contemporary art in China today. These predominantly young contemporary artists, largely based around Beijing and Shanghai, have chosen to remain in China, unlike many of the generation before them, and are moving towards a self-confidence and maturity that stems from an understanding of the contemporary world, China's place within it, as well as the contemplation of their own individual positions within a society at a time of rapid, and profound cultural change. Images of works in the catalogue are accompanied by texts by Karen Smith. Artist biographies are also provided.