Yang Tian, born in 1993, is a Beijing-based artist known for his compelling works in sculpture, oil painting, and installation. His Hui ethnic minority background deeply influences his art, which often explores themes related to oppressed and marginalized groups, displaying a strong political inclination. Yang’s recent work “Knot,” exhibited at the Larnaca Biennale 2023, addresses the human impact of China’s strict Zero-COVID policies, using centrifuge tubes from PCR tests to symbolize the dehumanization experienced during the pandemic. Yang’s art has been exhibited across Asia and Europe, and he encourages future Biennale participants to embrace the event as a unique platform for cultural exchange and artistic expression.
“Knot” centrifuge tube, iron, silver foil dimensions 20x24x48cm Tian Yang China
Yang Tian (b. 1993) is a Beijing-based artist who primarily works in the media of sculpture, oil painting, and installation. Yang began to study art formally in 2009 at an art high school in Beijing before attending Shandong University of Arts and Crafts (2012-2016) and Tokyo University of the Arts (2017-2019). and now studying at Yonsei University.
Born into a Hui ethnic minority family, Yang’s unique family background influences his creative outlook to this day. His works often address the issues of oppressed and marginalized groups, displaying a strong political tendency. The work ‘結 (Knot） exhibited here are created from the centrifuge tubes used in COVID-19 PCR testing, and belong to a series of sculptures Yang began working on 2022 in response to China’s strict “Zero-COVID” policies.
Yang’s works have been exhibited in China, Japan, South Korea, the United Kingdom, France, Russia, Greece and Cyprus, and included in Chinese and South Korean publications
Tell us a few words about your selected work ”Knot” exhibited at Larnaca Biennale 2023?
“Knot” is a reflection of the complexities and intricacies of human relationships and connections.
China’s Zero-COVID policy has been in place for three years, since the first outbreak in Wuhan in December 2019. Due to the policy’s strict restrictions, students can’t go to school, people have lost their jobs, and patients can’t receive medical treatment in time, sometimes losing their lives as a result. We have lost too much.
At the end of November 2022, several major Chinese cities held protests in response to the tragic deaths caused by an apartment fire in Urumqi, where residents could not be rescued in time due to Zero-COVID policy-related blockades. Many people asked why we couldn’t leave our houses, why we do PCR tests almost every day, sometimes twice a day. Even pet cats, dogs, fish and grass have been tested for COVID-19—it’s completely senseless.
In the face of such a government, many people are afraid of personal danger. When one person stands up in protest, they are quickly suppressed and arrested. But when a hundred people stand up to protest, an individual’s risk may reduced to just 1%. We need to unite.
This works is created from the sample tubes left over from China’s abrupt dismantling of PCR test centres across the country. Until recently, we the citizens of China have been reduced to our COVID test statuses. Subjected to daily PCR testing, we had to show our negative test statuses simply to access public transportation, and even now, we must show our COVID-negative health codes to eat at restaurants, and go to school, work, or gyms. Where our humanity has been forgotten or overlooked, our test samples, scrupulously labelled with our names and scrutinized, have become our identities. In this work, these test tubes represent our dehumanized selves, finally joining together against our oppressive government.
What was your overall impression of Larnaca and Larnaca Biennale?
Larnaca and the Larnaca Biennale left a profound impression on me. The city’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant atmosphere provided an inspiring backdrop for the Biennale. I was impressed by the diversity and quality of artworks showcased at the event, as well as the warm hospitality of the organizers and fellow artists. Participating in the Biennale was a memorable experience that I will cherish.
A message you would like to send to artists that will apply in the future for participation in the Larnaca Biennale.
To future applicants of the Larnaca Biennale, I encourage you to seize this opportunity to share your artistic vision with a global audience. The Biennale offers a platform for cultural exchange and dialogue, providing invaluable exposure and networking opportunities for artists. Embrace the challenge of presenting your work in a new context and trust in the power of art to transcend boundaries. I wish you all the best in your creative endeavors.
