Chen Qiulin: One Hundred Names
Picture this: one hundred Chinese surnames carved in tofu.
Overview
After exhibiting in Sydney earlier this year, Chinese artist Chen Qiulin brings her first Australian solo show to the Shepparton Art Museum. Her practice draws upon her experience growing up in Wanzhou City in Western China and the confluence of natural and urban landscapes. In recent years, the rapid urbanisation of China has becoming central to her work, which explores the intricacies of city planning, architectural hierarchies as well as tensions between tradition and technology.
The centrepiece and namesake of the show is the impressive One Hundred Names, consisting of the most common Chinese family names, carefully carved out of tofu. This edible artwork is designed to gradually decay over time, symbolising the material transformation that inevitably follows intensive labour. The exhibition will also feature a range of photographic, video and performance works.
As part of the exhibition, SAM will also hold a one-off tofu banquet with the artist on Saturday, June 4 to coincide with the launch. You can book tickets here.
Image: Chen Qiulin, Ellisis Series No.1 2001 58×86cm Photograph, Giclee Print, Ed.8 Courtesy the artist and A Thousand Plateaus Art Space, Chengdu © the artist.
Information
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