The connecting link of the Vienna-based Mai Ling artist collective’s exhibition is the sticky substance made out of the roots of the kudzu plant. Its viscous quality symbolizes not only unity and community but also resistance, challenging the stereotypes associated with “Asia” as the exotic Other, and questioning the entanglements of food, migration, colonization, and the dirty and sticky intersections of imagination.
The exhibition includes a sound installation that highlights issues of racism, sexism, and immigrant experiences, as well as a statement video referencing the collective’s name beside analyzing the enduring sexist and racial stereotypes of Asian women.
Founded in 2019, Mai Ling aims to address discrimination by amplifying the voices of Asian FLINT* (female, lesbian, intersex, non-binary, and trans) communities and creating new forms of collaboration and community.
Curators: Rita Kálmán, Eszter Lázár
Supported by: Federal Ministry Republic of Austria – Arts, Culture, the Civil Service and Sports, Austrian Cultural Forum Budapest, Oázis Garden Centers
Opening: 8 May, 18:00