Artist statement

In a world lacking balance between human action and nature’s needs, my work finds its place in the extinction of the gorillas, robotics developed in the animal image, and the mystique and anxiety surrounding nuclear energy. Growing up between Japan and China gave me perspectives pertaining to issues around nuclear energy, as well as climate change. Tech companies are implementing artificial intelligence and robots on a more intimate level in our society; we are continually challenged to find the balance and our stance in the world as new technologies are in constant production. In my most recent work exploring toys and toy packaging, I explore notions of propaganda through the implementations of slick, clean, bold design, as well as leaving room for the viewer to respond in their own way through a lack of moral character stance. I ask my viewers, and myself: is Mechakong a villain? Or a superhero? Where is the line drawn between those two? Where does good or bad intention start and end? As I ask these questions, I keep in mind that gorillas' genetic makeup has striking similarities to humans, yet they are a mirror that shows the animal instincts in us all. The rawness of our animal ancestors gives me the bravery to explore the uncertainties of the human landscape with mixed feelings of hope, urgency, and awe.

Zhenrui Cao