1+1

Press Release

Qin Yan

In 1+1, each artist presents either two distinct works or a single piece composed of two interrelated parts, developing a dynamic dialogue of comparison that illuminates both similarities and differences. The exhibition explores the concept through three dimensions. In some artworks, comparison emerges as a central theme, conveying specific messages or ideas of the artists. Simultaneously, it functions as a way of viewing the works, enabling viewers to identify references and creative processes within them. In addition, comparison serves as a method of critical discussion, transforming the exhibition space into an interactive forum. Viewers are asked to step into the roles of art historians or critics, using comparative analysis to uncover broader phenomena that reflect both contemporary art and our everyday lives.

Comparison manifests in various ways throughout the exhibition: contrasting media and techniques within the works of individual artists (Dieter Detzner, Suah Im, Jonathan Joosten, Luka Naujoks, Lucas Odahara); examining different perspectives of the same theme across time (Cai Dongdong, Yuzheng Cheng, Daniela Comani, Yutao Gao, Birgit Hölmer, Wenfeng Liao, Mu Tian, Bignia Wehrli, Jiang Ye); and drawing comparisons between different approaches within the same category (Anne Neukamp, Enrico Niemann, Jens Schubert, Linhan Yu, Kaitong Zhang). The works also offer comparisons between conceptual ideas and our everyday realities (Grapebattleships, Rexy Tseng, Yiy Zhang). However, these juxtapositions are not set in stone. The viewer has the opportunity to make their own comparison.

Beyond the act of comparison, the exhibition critically examines its own methodology. Viewers are invited to question whether all works by a single artist, or across multiple artists, are truly comparable. Additionally, the exhibition encourages reflection on the validity and objectivity of comparison, highlighting how it is often influenced by personal perspectives or assumptions. By addressing these concerns, the exhibition sparks deeper reflection on how comparisons in art are constructed and how they impact our interpretation of the works.

1+1 challenges traditional notions of how an artist’s works are connected, often tied to fixed labels. It reexamines the meanings of form, technique, subject, and concept, and their connection to the artist’s evolving identity. Rather than simply highlighting similarities and differences, the exhibition aims to reveal the distinctive qualities and intrinsic values of each work.