The Myriad Faces of Art
The Myriad Faces of Art
DATE
Jun 6 - Jun 12, 2025
LOCATION
17 Hart's Ln, London SE14 5UP
ARTISTS
Anna Yan, Bessy Huang, Cecilia Chuan Jiang, Lexiong Ying, Mingyi Gan, Hanx Liu, XINYUN SERENE CHEN, Yoyo Qin
ABOUT
"The Myriad Faces of Art" is a cross-disciplinary group exhibition delving into the theme of interconnectedness. In today's ever-changing and fast-evolving contemporary society, the forms and genres of art have become increasingly rich and diverse, touching on a vast array of themes. It seems that every individual generates thousands of ideas in their mind each day, reflecting the complex and multifaceted spirit of our time. In such a context, art is not merely a tool for expression—it also serves as a medium that connects individuals with society, and bridges the past with the future.
“Myriad” originally means ten thousand—a numerical unit with rich cultural significance. In East Asian cultures, the concept of “wan” (myriad) is more than just a count; it carries historical depth and philosophical weight. Traditional Chinese counting groups digits in units of four, contrasting with the Western convention of grouping by three, revealing fundamental differences in worldview and cognitive structures between East and West. In English, “myriad” is often used to describe something vast and countless, symbolizing boundless possibilities and diversity. It is precisely this cross-cultural semantic tension that gives rise to The Myriad Faces of Art—an exhibition that not only embraces the diversity of artistic media and themes, but also invites audiences to reflect: when we are confronted with “countless faces,” are we also encountering a multitude of cultural values, modes of expression, and visions of the world?
In this exhibition, artists work across various media—including painting, photography, installation, and moving image—to explore the often overlooked or concealed facets of contemporary society. Their works range from intimate portrayals of personal emotions to profound reflections on social structures, revealing how art continuously grows and transforms within complex layers of relationships. Through this interdisciplinary and cross-media approach, the exhibition offers viewers multiple perspectives from which to reconsider the intricate connections between individuals, and between people and society. It highlights the power and potential of art in an age defined by uncertainty. We hope this exhibition encourages more people to recognize that the “faces” shaped by different cultures are not only visual distinctions, but also deep cultural manifestations. Each “face” represents a position, a history, an emotional imprint. When these faces converge in the same space, they do not merely coexist—they enter into dialogue, inviting the audience to participate in a broader exploration of identity, difference, and coexistence.