CAN x TWO TEMPLE PLACE

Developed in partnership with Chinese Arts Now as part of their 2021 festival, and originally conceived as a live exhibition, CAN x TWO TEMPLE PLACE evolved into a completely new arts encounter, experienced in an original digital space.

Showcasing new work from brilliant British Chinese artists, CAN X TWO TEMPLE PLACE examines the nature of very different migration experiences, imagining the journey of William Waldorf Astor who commissioned Two Temple Place in 1895, alongside the largely poor Chinese community who emigrated to the UK from that time.

In a new 3D digital world using gaming technology, the artists come together to create a new way of looking at British Chinese history. Donald Shek’s work teases out ideas of Chinese diasporic identity and mythology from the history of the venue itself with artwork and giant scrolls. Chloe Wing creates an exquisite a cut-out paper gown and headpiece, representing the invisible and silent feminine presence in a traditionally masculine space, filling the space with her ethereal voice. Jasmin Kent Rodgman examines COVID-19 specific racism through her new instagram opera nineteenwaysoflooking and Daniel Yok Loh creates a visceral picture of immigration experiences with his incisive script.

Creative team for the Digital Exhibition: Exhibition artists: Chloe Wing, Donald Shek, Jasmin Kent Rodgman, Daniel York Loh / Curators: Rebecca Hone, Jodie Gilliam, Erhu musician (Film): Wang Xiao/ Writer (Film): Daniel York Loh/ Designer: Christine 挺欢 Urquhart Director & Composer: An-Ting Chang/ Tech Partner: Ian Gallagher/ Photographer: Johan Persson

Jack Tan’s ‘Hearings’ formed part of the CAN x TWO TEMPLE PLACE exhibition from 20th February 2021 – 21st March 2021. Jack has decided not to take part in the exhibition extension period from 22nd March.

CAN Festival, now in its third year, is the UK’s leading platform for British Chinese artists, presenting innovative performing and visual arts exploring contemporary Chinese themes, stories and art forms. Visit Chinese Arts Now to find out more about the exhibition’s artists and see the full festival programme.