Flow refers to a smooth and continuous motion. Although it usually refers to the movement of liquid, air or electricity, it can also, in the realm of metaphysics, be understood as a temporal or spiritual operation, constituting an abstract void state. Psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi’s essay, Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience reveals that when people fully concentrate on one thing, they forget the passage of time and achieve the unity of action and consciousness in that state. For that moment, there is no other purpose but enjoyment and togetherness.
Communication between humans relies upon language and words. However, language becomes inadequate when dealing with non-human entities. Since ancient times, people have taken advantage of nature, viewing its resources as inexhaustible. In light of humanity’s ever- growing reliance on it, environmental issues such as climate change, mass extinction, and pollution of water resources have emerged. Japanese Scholar Eiko Honda once suggested in her essay “Planetary” Knowledge? Moving Beyond Internationalism: “Nature is not so natural; it is eminently cultural.” In other words, it is a “Human” issue. Facing the silent resistance of nature, how can humanity discern its vulnerability and learn to speak and listen?
When They Flow is an exhibition that investigates a fluid dialogue, transcending language barriers between humans and nature. Through different practices, such as role playing, listening, ritual praying, dancing, the three artworks created by Pei-Ying Lin, Rie Toguchi, and Clara Pereda, explore a new balance between humans, nature, and even culture. Pei- Ying’s role-play board game design will be installed in the garden, while Clara’s interactive performance will be taking place in the Victoria park. Works of Rie Toguchi, on the other hand, will be installed in the studio, presenting an immersive landscape.
Artists｜Pei-Ying Lin, Rie Toguchi, Clara Pereda
Curator｜Ya Tien Shih
Opening｜7th August 2018
Durational performance from 3pm
Archive Website｜https://curatingthecontemporary.org/2018/08/06/exhibitions-and-exhibitions-august-2018/
