The objects created by Ellen Yiu (1997) could be described as miniatures. At least, in case larger originals of these small objects would actually exist. Her artistic practice focuses on interpreting small objects. She alters the meaning of these objects by changing their scale, making unexpected combinations, or creating something entirely new.
Anyone looking at Yiu’s installations, will be immersed in the artist’s personal impressions and experiences. Themes like identity, healing, and the search for a sense of belonging play an important role in her work. The artist expresses her recollections in a wide range of materials, using a variety of techniques — from woodcarving and bookbinding to textile manipulation —, and even incorporating materials like medication, electronics, and human hair.
At Prospects, Yiu is presenting a blueprint of a doll’s house on which she has put objects she made herself. All the different components are arranged in an intuitive way, a process she describes as meditative, occasionally frustrating, but also healing.
A deeper layer of meaning in the work can, for instance, be found in her search for a healthy and balanced life, for which she uses insights from traditional Chinese medicine, Taoist philosophy, and spiritual wisdom. This same attention is also present in the shown objects. With her kinetic installation, Yiu is inviting us to forge a connection based on a sense of wonder about the smaller things in life that, because of their modest size, are easily overlooked but may actually represent an entire life.
Text: Jorne Vriens
Translation from Dutch to English: Marie Louise Schoondergang