Chen Qiulin: Heartland

Chen Qiulin's solo exhibition “Heartland” is curated by Karen Smith, and it will feature a selection of works created by Chen over the past two decades, spanning diverse media such as video, photography, and installation. 

Chen Qiulin draws inspiration for her exploration of the concept of “home” from her hometown of Wanzhou, Chongqing. Not only does she care deeply about the changing lives of the millions of migrants from her hometown, but she has also extended her focus on “home” to the Dong villages in southeastern Guizhou, offering insights into the living conditions of local women within their families. The exhibition “Heartland” exudes a poetic quality found in everyday life, presenting artist Chen Qiulin’s long-standing reflections on individual existence and a sense of belonging to the family. Like a sincere invitation, it guides viewers to contemplate together: what kinds of places, memories, and moments of tranquility have shaped who we are today, and where can we find our truest selves?