Health-promoting exercises, 2023, Single-Channel Video, 4’51”

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The initial yoga movements, derived from a form of religious prayer, reveal a striking coherence with modern hygienic and wellness standards. The work juxtaposes the rational methods of healthy living and commercialism with sacred religious ritual, seeking once again to question and reflect upon the notion of “truth”.

Screenshot from Google Maps

The westernmost region of China, where I was born and raised, lies at the far edge of the sea. Sixty-three percent of its land is covered by deserts, and the area is frequently swept by sandstorms.

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Activities such as gymnastics and yoga can, in a sense, be seen as means of sustaining human survival. This idea resonates with Michel Foucault’s theory of biopolitics: to maintain the functioning of society, the state and its institutions often implement health policies that manage and optimize the population, reduce disease, and emphasize the value of life — ultimately as a way to control and discipline individuals.

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