Mandarin

Mandarin ducks has long been used as a joyous symbol to celebrate the coming together of lovers in Far East culture. Obviously, relationships is far more complex than the representation. Through the notion of balance, the attempt is to reflect that complexity and subtlety we find in relationships. 

Room constructed defines the private world of the couple. The union is depicted by red candles (reference to Far East marital culture) and placed on a balance beam. As candles will not burn in exactly the same way, the balance of the beam is affected. When visitor’s enters the room, their body weight moves and rocks the pivoted floor, further upsetting the balance beam. This force causes the beam to not only swivel but also spin horizontally. Voice recording of wedding vows fills the sacredly white but oppressing low-ceiling space. Burning candles, with limited lifespan, drips and leaves a trail of wax on the floor – forming the journal of the couple’s relationship. 

Material: Candles, steel rods, steel plates, wood, steel structure, foam mat, emulsion paint, T5 light tubes, sound box, audio recording
Dimensions: 5 x 5 x 2.4M (Room), 1.2 x 1.2 x 1.4M (balance beam)
Exhibited: Beijing SongZhuang Art Gallery – 10th anniversary contemporary art show, Mr Ka & Miss Jian

Email: antchin69@hotmail.com    |    IG: anthonychin.art