Wandering the street markets of London, Paris, and her native Taiwan, artist Steph Huang draws on vernacular styles, informal architecture, and local culture for her first solo show in Manchester ‘There is nothing old under the sun.’
Huang transforms everyday spaces and objects into lyrical and playful sculptures that explore our consumption and production habits — their historical layers, transcultural movements, and environmental impact. The title of this exhibition is taken from an expression often used by Italian photographer Luigi Ghirri, known for his enigmatic vision of everyday life. Huang, who is a passionate photographer herself, began the process of making this exhibition by excavating two boxes of her own photographs, spanning several years and cities. Focusing on materiality, Huang’s sculptural pieces combine found objects with craft techniques such as printing, glassblowing, casting, welding, and woodwork. Poetic and absurd, each piece invites us to re-examine the familiar through a lens of meticulously composed insights.
In this exhibition, Huang premiers a new work commissioned by University of Salford Art Collection and esea contemporary. 'Drizzle Between Bricks' was developed during a residency in Manchester using the Maker Space facilities at the University of Salford.
Huang is the 21st winner of the Mark Tanner Sculpture Award (MTSA), the most significant award for emerging UK artists working in the field of sculpture. It seeks to reward outstanding and innovative practice, with a particular interest in work that demonstrates a commitment to process, or sensitivity to material.
As part of the MTSA’s National Touring Programme, 'There is nothing old under the sun' was exhibited at Standpoint in London from 17th May to 29th June 2024. Following its display at esea contemporary, the exhibition will tour to Cross Lane Projects in Kendal in March 2025.
The exhibition is generously supported by MTSA and Arts Council England. Exhibition catalogue supported by the Henry Moore Foundation. Co-commission supported by the University of Salford Art Collection.