The Bienvenue Studios duo, formed by Xiaoqun Wu (China, *1990) and Oliver Hischier (Switzerland, *1987), employ text and images to reflect on the changing relationship between humanity and nature. Recipients of the MBAL Emerging Artist Award in 2021 as part of the Triennale de l’art imprimé contemporain, Bienvenue Studios unveiled an original installation at MBAL in 2022. This installation was based on their second artist’s book, Into Mountains. Chosen unanimously by a jury of specialists, this Zurich-based duo focuses on the rituals practiced by people prior to embarking into the peaks during the Chinese Jin Dynasty (317–419 EC).
These rituals, which included the use of amulets as a protective measures, were once regarded as expressions of respect and humility towards nature. However today such practices appear antiquated.. Once feared and considered a threat, the mountain is now seen as an exploitable resource. Into Mountains: Wear Your Mirror underscores both the awesome power and beauty of nature, and serves as a contribution to individual and collective awareness, urging us to relearn how to live in harmony with nature, appreciate and protect it, before it’s too late.
Silkscreen on Splendorlux bronze metal paper, inv. 2023-0016.1
