groups of works were unveiled at the -Materialist Thinking- Karamay International Material Art Season

On October 8th, the “Material Thinking” Karamay International Material Art Season kicked off at the Karamay Science and Technology Museum in Xinjiang. With over 200 pieces and installations on display, the event showcases the vibrant expressiveness of material art through the perspectives and inspirations of artists from around the globe, highlighting the unique cultural attributes of Karamay city.

Can you tell us about the significance of the “Material Thinking” Karamay International Material Art Season?

This event serves not just as an art exhibition, but also as an academic endeavor aimed at reinterpreting contemporary art every two years. The current season is structured around three main components: the Second International Contemporary Material Art Biennale, the Karamay Youth Mining & Wild Art Creation Camp, and a themed photography and oil painting exhibition.

What can attendees expect from the biennale?

The biennale section is being exhibited at the Karamay Science and Technology Museum, featuring over 200 works from 48 countries across Asia, Europe, America, Africa, and Oceania. It highlights the recent explorations and creative achievements of global artists in the field of material art. Meanwhile, the Creation Camp area at Heiyushan showcases the work of nearly 20 outstanding young artists from both domestic and international backgrounds. Lastly, the exhibition at the Karamay Cultural Center displays more than 70 photography and oil painting works created by Tsinghua University’s faculty and students during a summer practice program in Karamay.

As the chief curator of this season, could you share your vision behind it?

Tsinghua University’s Academy of Fine Arts Party Secretary, Qin Chuan, emphasized that “Material Thinking” aims to explore new pathways in contemporary art by using materials, fundamental elements of life and production. Since its inception, it has garnered substantial support from artists, scholars, and creators worldwide, evolving into an international academic exchange platform. The preparation of this art season saw close collaboration between Tsinghua Academy and the Karamay municipal government and associated organizations, carefully curating everything from exhibitions to artist invitations. Our goal was to bridge gaps in geography, culture, and language, creating a space for deep dialogue, integration, and shared experiences.

When does this art season run until?

The “Material Thinking” Karamay International Material Art Season is organized by Tsinghua University and the Karamay Municipal Government, with its execution facilitated by Tsinghua Academy of Fine Arts and the Karamay Bureau of Culture, Sports, Radio, Television and Tourism. It will continue until December 10th.