In the gym / On the road

10/12 (Sat) - 11/16/2024 (Sat)

Huang Hai-Hsin

Exhibition Date|2024.10.12 – 2024.11.16
Exhibition Venue|Double Square Gallery D1,D2
Opening Reception| 2024.10.19 (Sat.) 15:00

Double Square Gallery is pleased to announce the return of Huang Hai-Hsin with a dual exhibition, "In the Gym / On the Road," from October 12 to November 16, 2024. Known for her distinctive humor and keen dissection of the absurdities in everyday life, Huang Hai-Hsin masterfully captures those whimsical and subtle moments, deftly portraying the comical nature of various social strata. Following her acclaimed solo exhibition at Double Square Gallery in 2021, Huang's latest exhibition marks a significant return, offering an unique narrative through two distinct themes: "In the Gym" and "On the Road." "In the Gym" explores contemporary fitness culture, while "On the Road" provides a nuanced portrayal of the unique charm of Taiwan's landscape. Beyond her signature use of layered paint, Huang incorporates the medium of layered paper-cutting, symbolizing a new chapter in her artistic exploration.

The exhibition "In the Gym" delves deeply into the multifaceted nature of fitness culture with an unique and intimate perspective. Huang Hai-Hsin portrays gyms not only as stages for displaying muscular physiques but also as platforms for urban sentiment and self-awareness. In the realm of artistic expression, the term "parody" broadly refers to using imitation and exaggeration to reveal the characteristics or flaws of the original. In Huang's work, she uses parody to magnify the grimacing faces and muscular outlines of fitness enthusiasts, exposing the fervor and absurdity of a hormone-driven world, revealing the harsh and satirical underpinnings behind the modern pursuit of perfect appearances. Each movement and sweat not only showcases strength but also reflects the collective anxiety and consensus of modern society on sculpting the ideal body. The "On the Road" series captures the unique charm and nostalgic whimsy of Taiwan through intricate papercutting techniques, guiding viewers from rural homes and winding mountain roads to urban architecture and coastal landscapes. Each scene is vividly rendered in colored paper, enhancing the visual and emotional impact of the journey from countryside to city. The artist’s layered papercutting technique not only highlights Taiwan's geographical diversity but also subtly evokes deep memories and emotional connections to the island, reflecting the complex interweaving of globalization and local identity.

The dual exhibition "In the Gym / On the Road" showcases Huang Hai-Hsin's keen observation and whimsical portrayal of everyday life, marking a significant breakthrough in her artistic expression. By boldly integrating papercutting techniques into her work, Huang demonstrates a flexible approach to material use, continuing her stylistic narrative while engaging in a multifaceted exploration of artistic creation. The exhibition offers a nuanced perspective on the diversity and complexities of contemporary society and culture. Her depiction of everyday scenes subtly mocks social norms, with each cut and stroke representing a bold innovation in her creative journey, highlighting the tension and harmony between regional characteristics and a global perspective.