Coral 2019

Qin Yufen’s ‘Coral’ presents a dense, immersive environment of meticulously arranged silver forms. The image creates meaning through contrasting natural forms, industrial materials, and institutional space. The use of coral evokes environmental themes and a sense of the organic, yet the metallic execution transforms it into something artificial. As a Chinese artist, Qin Yufen is part of a generation that has critically engaged with globalism and its impact on Chinese identity and culture. Her choice of material, and the grid-like organization of the installation reference the industrialization and urbanization that has transformed China since the late 20th century. By displaying this work in the white cube of a gallery, Qin is commenting on the way that museums and institutions classify and display the natural world. To fully appreciate this work, we should research how contemporary Chinese artists are using installation art to reflect on the social and environmental changes of their time. Art history reveals the vital role of art as a commentary on our evolving world.