Collection Online
Search the Collection 搜索M+藏品
M+ Sigg Collection, Hong Kong. By donation, © Wang Jin
Wang Jin 王晉
Dream of China 中國夢
1997
This sculptural work is a reproduction of a classical dragon robe. Installed on a stand, its sleeves are stretched out as if supported by arms, revealing the stripes and detailed cuff embroidery. The body of the garment features Chinese dragons and elaborate patterns. Woven with plastic threads, the robe is translucent and appears ethereal. Wang Jin began exploring the relationship between objects and cultural authenticity in the 1990s with his Dream of China series, a response to his experience of the clash between traditional and modern values in China. He employs rural seamstresses to faithfully replicate the form and design of traditional Beijing opera costumes. These robes are usually made from colourful silk, but Wang uses plastic, a consumer product he considers ubiquitous in developing countries and perfectly suited to a comment on contemporary Chinese society. His production transforms a symbol of cultural heritage into an ambiguous image of sterility and weightlessness. Wang’s practice encompasses performance and photography works, in which he often wears his own robes.
Loading