In "NO LAB," artist and Guangzhou native Cao Fei has joined with the Hong Kong-based MAP Office to create a site-specific installation and experience via film and the online virtual community Second Life which recalls the massive natural disaster of Hurricane Katrina. "NO LAB on Tour" depicts the storm surge and the devastating aftermath of Hurricane Katrina through a stark, politically charged film. Visitors are able to sign into Second Life via interactive computer stations that provide access to the virtual "NO LAB" setting, and can participate in the ongoing project exploring ideas of urban space, society and the trauma/drama of change.

Adding to the experience in Hong Kong are video and line drawings incorporating imagery from a Second Line parade (a traditional, New Orleans-style brass band parade) that marched through Savannah during SCAD's presentation of "NO LAB" there. The SCAD Savannah parade was led by a Mardi Gras Indian, life-size wooden cutout figures of characters featured in Cao's film (President Barack Obama, Brad Pitt, Oprah Winfrey and Cao Fei's own Second Life avatar "China Tracy"), costumes and a grand procession of students, faculty, staff and community members. The exhibition design has been reconceived for the Hong Kong venue and features new elements that showcase the evolution of the project at each successive SCAD location.

Reception: Thursday, June 30, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Gallery hours: Monday through Saturday, 10:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Exhibition and reception are free and open to the public.