Topophilia

As cultural identity becomes more and more malleable in the age of globalization, what makes one “Chinese” or any other ethnicity for that matter? Cultural identity has become dependent not only upon where one is from, but also where one is now, and in what company. Many artists have made nomadism a way of life, shuttling between exhibits, residencies, and production bases.

This exhibition profiles several artists of Chinese descent that operate in the larger geographic context of China (Mainland China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore) as well other parts of the world with large historical Chinese populations. Aside from sharing a common ethnic background and itinerant experiences they also share similar artistic sensibilities. Many approach their work conceptually and employ quotidian subjects and materials. Others deal with the itinerant experience directly or through their work reconfigure their cultural heritage. Some would argue that their Chinese heritage plays no role in their works.

Through video, photography, installation, sound, and performance works, this exhibition explores the pluralism of the Chinese identity, geographically, and culturally. It aims to explore how the complex legacy of Chinese immigration and its contribution to local economies and cultures fits into our contemporary, de-centered, plural-cultural world.