Story perspectives

Textile Art Explores Identity and Memory at Hayward Gallery

2/20/2026

Summary

Story summary

Yin Xiuzhen, artist, presents "Heart to Heart" at London's Hayward Gallery, with large-scale installations made from used clothing.
Her work reflects personal history and the Cultural Revolution’s impact on her surroundings.
Chiharu Shiota, artist, presents "Threads of Life," using thread to create web-like installations about memory and connection.
Both address identity through textiles, and their exhibitions run until May 3, 2026.

History

Historical Context

The Cultural Revolution, initiated by Mao Zedong in 1966, aimed to eliminate capitalist and traditional elements from Chinese society, resulting in widespread violence and persecution. Artists like Yin Xiuzhen and Chiharu Shiota reflect on this tumultuous period through their textile installations at London's Hayward Gallery, exploring themes of identity and memory, and highlighting the lasting impact of this decade-long upheaval on contemporary art.

1 of 2

Story summary

Yin Xiuzhen, artist, presents "Heart to Heart" at London's Hayward Gallery, with large-scale installations made from used clothing.
Her work reflects personal history and the Cultural Revolution’s impact on her surroundings.
Chiharu Shiota, artist, presents "Threads of Life," using thread to create web-like installations about memory and connection.
Both address identity through textiles, and their exhibitions run until May 3, 2026.

1 / 2