Keen to explore the concept of taboo through art and performance, she has invited a group of diverse artists to be part of her first curated art exhibition ‘Taboo’ at Bankstown Arts Centre.
Kicking off the artworks is Nancy’s suit of ancient Chinese armour which she produced from recycled lead crystal glass remnants and which weighs 80kg.
“The original historic armour probably weighed about 60kg but for these purposes, it represents the weight we put on ourselves, we almost wear our pride like armour and if I fall, there’s a chance it might break and cut me,” she said.
Another artist Celine Cheung wants to open up conversations about sexuality and mental health through performance.
“It is incredibly fascinating to see, with all of our ‘taboos’ explored in sensitive ways,” Nancy said.
“Photographer Felix De Celo depicts images of his once highly intellectual godfather who now suffers from dementia and you can almost see his memories fading away in the pictures.
“Allie Jonscher is exhibiting resin, jewel-like works which feature instagram posts and letters, some of them love letters, exploring the taboo of what we should and shouldn’t see.”
With ‘Taboo’ able to be viewed until June 24, it’s free to attend and includes ‘Nooks of the Mind’, a forum on mental wellbeing and art on May 20 and ‘Navigating Acts of Love’, a talk on relationships and familial love on June 17.
“Prepare to think and be challenged,” Nancy added.
“What is taboo for one, may not be taboo for another …”
How latest exhibition is Taboo
GROWING up Asian-Australian, Bankstown artist Nancy Yu has witnessed many taboos that are never talked about – sexuality, mental health and dementia to name a few.