Curator: Liang Qin
Artists: Chu Chao, Chen Xin, Huang Junwei, He Wenjun, Huang Zhe, Bei Linnan, Yohei Yama, Wang Jinbo, Wu Shi (in alphabetical order)
Exhibition Location : Hall 9, Powerlong Museum, Shanghai, China
In Being and Time, the German philosopher Martin Heidegger introduces the core idea of "Dasein," a concept formed by the conjunction of "da" (there) and "sein" (being), which reveals the true meaning of "existence." Heidegger explores the unique mode of existence that is intrinsic to humanity, emphasizing the historical and temporal nature of existence. Through this lens, he considers humanity's responsibility and value within the grand span of world history. This exhibition, anchored by the theme of the "New Wave," seeks to focus on "existence" as its core, reflecting on the current "wave" of young artists. Throughout history, the group of young artists has always been seen as the "pioneers" of their times. They create the waves of their era while also being shaped by them. Undoubtedly, within the present context, both the direction of these societal waves and the inner evolution of individuals in response to external forces exhibit greater uncertainty. Yet, it is precisely this uncertainty that makes the "existence" of young artists reveal a multitude of forms and paths.
For this exhibition, we have invited artists Chu Chao, Chen Xin, Huang Junwei, He Wenjun, Huang Zhe, Bei Linnan, Yohei Yama, Wang Jinbo, and Wu Shi to form a "New Wave." Hailing from diverse geographic regions, each of them brings vitality and innovation to their conceptual frameworks, narrative approaches, and forms of expression. In confronting the "existence" of this era, they each exhibit a sensitive and proactive response. In their works, we witness a capacity to confront the self, connect the internal with the external, and understand and interpret the world. "One does not step into the same river twice," and it is precisely the fluidity and change of the world that imbue "existence" with meaning. With the "New Wave: Group Exhibition of Young Artists," we aim to consolidate the momentum and force of this contemporary cultural wave. Perhaps a group of young artists has already forged a trend and shared understanding, or perhaps many remain uncertain and struggling within the wave. Nonetheless, all of them cannot escape the necessity of facing themselves, the world, and the contemporary context, while also confronting the "awareness of existence" sparked by the art history they inhabit. The "New Wave" does not solely pursue "innovation" or "revolution;" it can also signify "reimagining" or "renewal." The waves will continue to rise and fall, but the tide always moves forward.