Cang Xin's creations immerse us in the dynamic energy produced by the five elements: metal, water, wood, fire, and earth. By delving into the principles that govern the primitive religions of nomadic tribes and hunters, Cang Xin's performance photographs blur the boundaries between nature and humanity. Filled with a surrealistic quality that transcends everyday human experiences, his artworks leave viewers contemplating the interconnectedness of all existence.

Born in Baotou, Inner Mangolia, Cang Xin received a music education from the Tianjin Academy of Music (1986) before turning to art and enrolling in the Tianjin Academy of Fine Arts (1988-89). Cang took up painting in 1991, but then moved to Beijing’s ‘East Village’ two years later and joined a group of artists famous for their challenging performance art. Inspired by ideas of shamanism, cosmology, and the possibilities of a parallel universe, Cang continued his painting practice in Beijing and explored sculpture, as seen in his White Rabbit Collection series Exotic Flowers and Rare Herbs (2003). Currently based in Beijing, Cang has become most known for his performance and photography and continues to exhibit regularly around China and internationally.