CUHK-Shenzhen shines with global artists' works

“Words for the Future,” showcasing contemporary artworks by more than 20 global artists and collectives, opened May 17 at the Gravity Field Art Gallery of The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen (CUHK-Shenzhen). The exhibition invites students and the public to engage with cutting-edge art practices and discover the diverse charm of artistic creation.

Featuring works from the ASE Foundation Art Collection, the exhibition explores how artists use art to redefine unique life experiences. Dr. Shen Qilan, the curator, explains that “the beauty of art lies in expressing and naming the intangible in silence.” 

She adds that when “most languages (written and visual) have been tamed and functionalized by systems,” it becomes the responsibility of artists to “revitalize language and perception.” Through reflection and creation, artists develop their own artistic language — bringing “true vitality.”

Guests and visitors admire artworks at the exhibition. Photos courtesy of the organizer unless otherwise stated

Artist Shi Zhiying introduces her work “Gem and Mirror No. 26.”

The exhibition unfolds in five chapters. Dr. Shen further describes them as follows: examining the “Hidden Order” of the body and social rules; exploring the “Silent Secrets” of language; discussing the “Necessary Perspectives” formed through gazing; focusing on the “Touch of the Earth” with a broad vision; and opening the “Dialects of the Mind” as an inner window.

Upon entering the bright gallery, visitors are drawn to works including Ulla von Brandenburg’s painting “Dance with Mask,” Sophie von Hellermann’s painting “Fairy Dance for Zhang Qiong,” Maria Farrar’s painting “Airliner,” and Yin Yunya’s photograph “Acclimation.” 

The pieces trace how human bodies move between freedom and discipline — capturing, for example, the joy of dancers stretching freely as well as the restraint of movements constrained by limited space. Rendered in vibrant colors and bold visual rhythm, the works feel vivid and alive.

Maria Farrar’s painting “Airliner.” Photo by Cao Zhen

“Acclimation” by Yin Yunya. Photo by Cao Zhen

“Breathing Light,” created by Jaffa Lam. The Hong Kong artist uses recycled black and blue textiles to echo the crowns of trees in nature — where openings allow plants to absorb sunlight and share living space. A lesson worth reflecting on. Axel Vervoordt Gallery attended the exhibition opening ceremony on behalf of the artist. Photo by Cao Zhen

Elsewhere in the gallery, other artworks — each with distinct expressions — offer beauty and imagination that resist quick interpretation. The exhibition encourages visitors to embark on a shared journey of understanding: to find their own “words” for what they see and feel, and to embrace the vast possibilities beyond.

Since opening in 2024, the Gravity Field Art Gallery, operated by the University Arts Centre (UAC) of CUHK-Shenzhen, has been committed to exploring the multiple relationships among art, design, humanities, technology, and society through exhibitions and educational programs.

During the exhibition period, Dr. Shen will host public education activities and an academic forum on campus, guiding students to understand how art reinterprets the world through observation, reflection, and dialogue.

More photos from the organizer:

Dates: Through Sept. 15

Hours: 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m., closed Mondays 

Venue: Gravity Field Art Gallery, Teaching Complex D101, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Longgang District 香港中文大学(深圳)重力场美术馆

Metro: Line 16 to Universiade Center Station (大运中心站), Exit D

Note: The exhibition is open to CUHK-Shenzhen staff and students from Tuesday to Sunday. On weekends and statutory holidays, off-campus visitors may enter after booking via the 参观港中深 WeChat miniprogram. Follow “平安港中深” (ID: SecurityOffice) WeChat official account for any notices regarding temporary closures.