Guan Xiao: Flattened Metal at ICA, London.

Guan Xiao:
Flattened Metal at ICA, London.

Guan Xiao Flattened Metal ICA for artlead 1

Guan Xiao Flattened Metal ICA for artlead 2

The ICA – in association with the K11 Art Foundation – is delighted to announce the first solo institutional exhibition in the UK by Chinese artist Guan Xiao, entitled Flattened Metal.

Working mainly in sculpture and video, Guan Xiao explores how ways of seeing are now influenced by digital image circulation as an increasingly dominant source of knowledge and information exchange. In various works and installations she endeavours to expand the aesthetic and cognitive possibilities for how identity and meaning are assigned and understood.

Guan Xiao’s work is occupied with our incomprehension of the past, and the way in which the unknown gives rise to intriguing discussion in the present. She juxtaposes references from the past and present (or future), weaving visual and audio material (including video clips found on the internet), digital rendering techniques and objects, alongside so-called primitive and high tech elements, creating distinct and evocative installations. In this way, she offers fresh perspectives on what we perceive as the ‘new’ and the ‘old’.

Guan Xiao’s ICA exhibition includes a video triptych and new installation comprising five large printed screens, in front of which sculptures made up of various materials are placed, including speakers that emit new audio works.

Flattened Metal is presented by the ICA in association with the K11 Art Foundation. This non-profit supports the development of Chinese contemporary art from Greater China by providing a creative platform that nurtures artistic talents and brings them to the international stage – through numerous international collaborations.

Guan Xiao Flattened Metal ICA for artlead 3