Network Infinity, 2023
steel, carved acrylic, mirror, partial mirror, LED lights, silicone paint
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About the Artist
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Transcription
Hello, my name is NC Qin and the work I am exhibiting in HIDDEN is ‘Network Infinity’, an artwork that beckons you into the depths of Rookwood’s serene forested area. As you approach this installation, I invite you to embark on a visual odyssey that peers into the wonders of the world of mycelium, a realm of hidden intricacies and profound connections.
‘Network Infinity’ harnesses the illusion of infinity mirrors, where partial mirrors reflect light within themselves forging an infinite interplay of light and reflection. Within this display, delicate microbial designs are hand-carved on perspex panels showcasing a vortex of mycelium networks.
Mycelium, often referred to as nature's internet, is the branching network of fine, thread-like structures that form the vegetative part of fungi. While these networks are largely invisible to the naked eye, their impact on the world around us is profound. They act as nature's recyclers, breaking down fallen leaves, decaying plants, and even deceased animals, returning essential nutrients to the soil and facilitating the growth of new life. They form symbiotic relationships with the roots of plants, where they provide nutrients in exchange for sugars produced through photosynthesis. This partnership enhances the resilience and vitality of the entire ecosystem, enabling plants to better withstand harsh environmental conditions.
Just as mycelium networks weave through the earth, silently connecting plants, our human existence is also intertwined through intricate webs of social connections. Our relationships extend in a myriad of directions, crossing paths and interweaving with one another. ‘Network Infinity’ serves as a visual metaphor, inviting viewers to reflect on the parallels between the mycelium networks beneath the surface and the unseen bonds that unite us as individuals and communities. It encourages us to appreciate the profound impact of these connections, and to contemplate the importance of fostering empathy, cooperation, and understanding in our own social ecology. Just as mycelium sustains the vitality of ecosystems, our interconnectedness and collective actions have the power to shape a more harmonious and resilient society.
Rookwood Cemetery, with its rich history and tranquil beauty, serves as the perfect backdrop for ‘Network Infinity’. This artwork acts as a symbolic bridge between the earthly and ethereal, just as Rookwood Cemetery stands as a testament to the interconnectedness of past and present. The root-like designs within ‘Network Infinity’ artwork parallels the roots that bind us to our ancestors, inviting viewers to contemplate the enduring influence of those who came before us, reminding us of the invisible threads that connect us to the memories, stories, and legacies of the departed. It encourages a contemplation of our own mortality and prompts a deeper appreciation for the interconnected nature of life and death. ‘Network Infinity’ serves as a gentle reminder that although our loved ones may no longer be physically present, their essence and impact continue to resonate within us, shaping our individual and collective narratives.
As you gaze into the depths of ‘Network Infinity’, I encourage you to follow your curiosity. Consider the parallel between the hidden mycelium networks and the intricate social ecosystems that thrive beneath the surface.