失败是成功之母. 2019
(Failure is the Mother of Success)
35mm color film, found garments, embroidery, riso print
Uncertainty and instability characterize these times. Nonetheless, success and progress endure as a condition to strive for, even though there is little faith in either. Even if one sets out to fail the possibility of success is never eradicated and failure once again is ushered in. - Lisa De Feuvre
Failure is the Mother of Success (失败是成功之母) is a creative interrogation into my year since returning from abroad, both as an artist now well outside of the institution and as a (perhaps eternally) single woman.
Having spent 12 months focusing solely on my practice in China, and for the first time negotiating genuine criticism, this exhibition examines the fallout we experience from reproach. Using humour, language, and misinterpretation, Failure is the Mother of Success (失败是成功之母) seeks to break down the process of regaining autonomy over my arts practice. By imparting the (oft unsolicited) wisdom shared with me on garments, this work plays on the universal and personal nature of critique. Rather than shying away from them, each garment makes its statement and offers the wearer the opportunity to challenge the advice of others - because yeah, it is fucking good to see you making best use of your arts degree.