Distributed for Hong Kong University Press
On the Steppes of Dreams
A celebration of surrealism’s centennial, seen through the visionary lens of Basil Pao.
Basil Pao invites readers into his dreamscapes—extraordinary photomontages that blur the boundaries between reality and fantasy. As a companion to Carnival of Dreams, this stunning collection brings his five-decade exploration of surrealism and magic realism to a close, culminating in a chapter dedicated to the artists who shaped his vision.
From early cut-and-paste collages to digitally enhanced compositions, Pao’s work celebrates the boundless possibilities of artistic expression. Marking the hundredth anniversary of Surrealism, this book is both a tribute and a celebration, honoring the movement’s enduring ability to challenge perception and ignite wonder.
With an introduction by Terry Gilliam, On the Steppes of Dreams offers an invitation to step beyond the confines of reason and into a universe where the impossible takes shape one breathtaking image at a time.
Basil Pao invites readers into his dreamscapes—extraordinary photomontages that blur the boundaries between reality and fantasy. As a companion to Carnival of Dreams, this stunning collection brings his five-decade exploration of surrealism and magic realism to a close, culminating in a chapter dedicated to the artists who shaped his vision.
From early cut-and-paste collages to digitally enhanced compositions, Pao’s work celebrates the boundless possibilities of artistic expression. Marking the hundredth anniversary of Surrealism, this book is both a tribute and a celebration, honoring the movement’s enduring ability to challenge perception and ignite wonder.
With an introduction by Terry Gilliam, On the Steppes of Dreams offers an invitation to step beyond the confines of reason and into a universe where the impossible takes shape one breathtaking image at a time.

Table of Contents
9
INTRODUCTION BY TERRY GILLIAM
13
PART ONE
ON THE STEPPES OF DREAMS
123
PART TWO
THE SURREAL CENTURY
131
A TRIBUTE TO THE SURREALISTS & FRIENDS
205
AFTERWORDS
INTRODUCTION BY TERRY GILLIAM
13
PART ONE
ON THE STEPPES OF DREAMS
123
PART TWO
THE SURREAL CENTURY
131
A TRIBUTE TO THE SURREALISTS & FRIENDS
205
AFTERWORDS
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