Teppei Kaneuji (b. 1978, Kyoto) is a sculptor of the everyday absurd. His assemblages, at once playful and powerful, transform objects both ordinary and iconic into sculptural and cut-paper collages, allowing deeper meanings to emerge beyond the preordained social and economic values usually assigned to their components. Consisting of works created on-site by Kaneuji during a residency at UCCA during summer 2012, “Towering Something” is here presented in four series, each displaying Kaneuji’s varying methods of seeking out symbol-object relationships and intentionally smothering their projected meanings. By connecting lines, turning shapes inside out, and flip-flopping roles of “inner” and “outer,” Kaneuji creates a space in which common objects seem suddenly unfamiliar—resulting in a whimsical separation of purpose and form as well as a dialogue on fundamental human desires and commercial consumption. What’s more exciting is that during the exhibition’s time at the Shanghai K11 Art Mall, the artist will tailor a new work of art based upon his interpretation of the Art, Humanity, and Nature of the chi K11 art space and display the new work in the exhibition.

-K11 Art Foundation

Image: © Teppei Kaneuji, White Discharge (Funnel), plastic, resin, 2012, 41 x 46 x 19cm
Courtesy of the artist, UCCA and Shungo Arts
Photo by: Yusuke Nishimitsu