Circle, 2017
Site specific installation, found objects in space.
In the inaugural International Sculpture Biennial held in Wuhan, China, Alan Chin's innovative circle installations breathed new life into the Abandoned Pavilion—an intriguing venue steeped in historical significance. Chin embraced the haunting allure of this enigmatic building, which had become home to over a thousand restless spirits. Remarkably, he undertook the challenge of using only materials found within the space itself, refraining from introducing any external resources.
The Abandoned Pavilion had an eerie past, as it had been abruptly shut down in the late 1980s during its construction. The incomplete structure stood as a testament to unfulfilled dreams and untold stories, imbuing it with an aura of mystery and melancholy. It was within this haunting atmosphere that Alan Chin embarked on his artistic exploration.
Drawing inspiration from the spirit-infused surroundings, Chin meticulously curated his circle installations. He ingeniously repurposed the materials existing within the pavilion's confines, giving them new purpose and meaning. Each circle installation resonated with the presence of the abandoned spirits, capturing the essence of their untold narratives and unfulfilled aspirations.
Chin's decision to refrain from introducing external materials into the space was a deliberate act of respect for the historical context and the spirits that lingered within. By working solely with the available resources, he forged a deep connection with the abandoned pavilion, transforming its forgotten remnants into poignant works of art.
Through his circle installations, Alan Chin not only showcased his artistic talent but also breathed new life into the forgotten corners of the Abandoned Pavilion. His creations paid homage to the building's tumultuous history, encapsulating the emotions and untold stories that had long been neglected. The first International Sculpture Biennial became a platform for rediscovery and reimagining, as artists like Chin confronted the ghosts of the past and sought to reconcile their presence through their art.
