Artist
HEI QIANG Born 1996, DaTong, China.
Based in Beijing and London.
Education:
BA Sculpture, Central Academy of Fine Arts 2017–2022
MFA Computational Arts, Goldsmiths, University of London 2024–2026
On my journey of knowledge and personal growth, I have been fortunate to transition from a remote coal mining town in China to bustling metropolitan cities. This shift allowed me to experience firsthand the stark contrasts between cultural identities and lifestyles across regions, and witness the gradual disappearance of marginalized cultures. These experiences ignited my deep interest in exploring the remnants of civilizations and the impact of environmental changes.
Inspired by social realism, my creative process emphasizes field research to uncover the historical events and environmental issues of specific locations, focusing on the perspectives of those who have directly experienced them.
Set against the backdrop of China’s unique urban-rural dichotomy, my work draws from my family history to explore the loss of collective and personal memory caused by population migration and environmental transformation.
I create works using 3D animation, VR games, interactive installations, and documentaries, incorporating non-human perspectives and nonlinear narratives to delve into these themes.