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Diese Arbeit erforscht die Schnittstelle zwischen gesellschaftlichen Erwartungen, persönlicher Identität und dem kulturellen Konzept des «Gesichts» ( 面子). Durch die Wiederverwendung gebrauchter Gesichtsmasken in einer grossen Laterne reflektiert das Werk den doppelten Druck der Selbstinszenierung und der Aufrechterhaltung des sozialen Ansehens. Die Laterne dient als Metapher für gesellschaftliche Strukturen, die unser Inneres schützen, während die Masken Schönheitsrituale als Akte der Bewahrung sozialen Werts hervorheben. Der Titel, inspiriert von lehrbuchhafter Höflichkeit, unterstreicht die Oberflächlichkeit sozialer Interaktionen und die emotionale Arbeit, die hinter der Aufrechterhaltung von Erscheinungsbildern steckt.

 

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This work explores the intersection of societal expectations, personal identity, and the cultural concept of “face” (面子). Through the resuse of used face masks into a large lantern, the work reflects the dual pressures of self-presentation and maintaining social standing. The lantern serves as a metaphor for societal structures protecting our inner self, while the masks highlight beauty rituals as acts of preserving social value. The title, drawn from textbook-like politeness, underscores the superficiality of social interactions and emotional labour behind maintaining appearances.

 

Artist Statement
Naiwen Chou (b. 1994, Taipei, Taiwan) is an artist based in Zurich whose practice spans sculpture, installation, and performance.
Drawing on experiences across Asia and Europe, Naiwen’s work delves into memory, identity, and perception, transforming personal and societal reflections into abstract visual forms. Her approach is shaped by the dynamic interplay between individuality and collectivity, examining how individual expression both influences and is influenced by the collective experience. Through her works, she explores how notions of identity are continuously renegotiated within an ever-evolving world. Central to her practice is an exploration of intimacy—creating works that invite introspection and dialogue by fostering a sense of closeness between the viewer and the subject matter. Her art probes collective individuality, illuminating the co-dependence of personal and societal identity, revealing how they are mutually influential. Naiwen’s work reflects themes and insights drawn from her own experiences and broader social landscapes, remaining
open-ended to encourage viewers to share their perspectives. In her creative process, she balances change and continuity, preservation and transformation, in the fluid space where personal memory intersects with shared cultural narratives. By addressing these themes, Naiwen invites audiences to navigate identity and perception as fluid constructs shaped by both their unique and collective encounters.

 
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