FRIIS-HANSEN, DANA
Cai Guo-Qiang is one of the most significant Chinese artists to have emerged internationally in the 1990´s. Born in Quanzhou, China, in 1957, Cai lived in Tokyo from 1986 until 1995, when he moved to New York. Best known for his spectacular gunpowder projects at locations ranging from museum entrances to the sites of Land art works such as Robert Smithson´s spiral Jetty, Cai has explored a diversity of media and art forms. Major projects have included Project to Extend the Great Wall of China by 10.000 Meters: Project for Extraterrestrials No. 10 (1993), an extension of the Great Wall of China designed to be seen from outher space by extraterrestrial beings. Incorporating principles of feng shui, kites, jacuzzis, mini golf courses, melted-down cars and abandoned boats, his projects are strongly influenced by their location. Frequently his works are altered or developed as they are exhibited at new sites. Unifying Cai´swide-ranging work is his consistent investigation of humanity´s place within the universe.
Cai was shortlisted for the 1996 Hugo Boss Prize and won the Leone d´oro award at the 48th Venice Biennale (1999). He has been included in numerous biennial exhibitions, including Sao Paulo (1996), Istambul (1997) and Venice (1995, 1997, 1999, 2001). His work has also been included in key international surveys of new Chinese art, including "Cities on the Move" (Hayward Gallery, London, and tour, 1997)and "Inside Out: New Chinese Art" (San Francisco Museum of Modern Art and tour, 1998)
