Exhibition examines the issue of identity over and over again
ECOLOGICAL adaptation is a term in biology which is used to describe an organism’s evolutionary process.
But the words can also be applied elsewhere as our social circles are as fierce and competitive as nature. Mistakes can make you look “not cool,” leading to marginalization.
MORTSE, a young artistic group founded in 2017 comprised of more than 30 artists, musicians and scientists, has launched a new exhibition titled Over and Over Again at the Powerlong Art Museum, focusing on this issue.
Consumerism, brand value and the reflection of cultural trends are seen in the 17 works.
According to the artists, in order to adapt to changes in society, people have evolved survival skills by putting on masquerades.
Though the topic has been discussed over and over again, Han Zhuo, the curator of the exhibition, thinks that each time we look at the matter, we can always see it from a different angle.
“Do people unconsciously identify themselves in a group, or are they forced to do so?” he asked.
“We are not against it, we’re more sarcastic. We don’t intend to ‘awake’ people from the trend, just express our attitude and thoughts.”
In an art piece called “The Birth of Tragedy,” visitors can see the incorporation of modern and classic culture. The reconstruction of contemporary pop culture symbols and classical Greek mythology sculptures symbolizes the collision and integration of old and new values.
It raised a question: Is the civilization created in this great age a precious epic or the last carnival before its collapse?
And whether the trend we’re having now is a new aesthetic or a devastating blow to the heritage. What will be left after 100 years, the logo or the Greek culture?
“Do we explore behind a brand name the same as we sought the history behind Greek architecture?” he asked.
People who go to the exhibition are encouraged to take photos.
“Some people purchase tickets so that they can have a beautiful and new background for their photos,” said Han. “I’ve been paying attention to this. I don’t mind people taking pictures of the exhibition, because it’s their behaviors that make the whole art piece complete.”
Han values the stimulation of thought art can bring to each person. A free booklet about the exhibition is designed to raise questions and provoke thoughts rather than explain the details and meanings of each piece of work.
The work “Addictive” illustrates the core meaning of the exhibition.
It portrayed eight females burdened with different identity tags.
A female covered in stitches implies the popularity of cosmetic surgery. There are women who need to take medicine and pills, girls who arm themselves with luxury brands, and others who live in front of a camera. With interaction and communication between the viewer and this work, they try to explore the true essence of women behind their desires.
The team is comprised of young artists. They have set 10 rules which they refer to as bible, including “Crazy but professional,” “This is our playground, tech and art be our toys,” and “Stay in innovation live longer!”
“Installation art has seen a rise in popularity in the country in recent years,” Han said. “One style is like teamLab, featuring stars, the universe and nature, another aims for an installation for children and families, and we can also be counted as a unique style, which is more hardcore.”
The exhibition will tour the country, while Han is also planning to launch the exhibition in Europe.
Date: Through November 2
Opening time: 10am-6pm (closed on Mondays)
Ticket: 128-258 yuan
Venue: Powerlong Art Museum Address: 3055 Caobao Rd