Discover the enchantment of rainforest at OCAT

An exhibition celebrating the allure of the tropical rainforest is currently captivating visitors at the OCT Contemporary Art Terminal (OCAT) at OCT-LOFT in Nanshan District.

Named “Songs of the Rainforest: Canoes, Totems and Markets From the Tropics,” this exhibition transports guests into the heart of a forest ecosystem teeming with natural wonders and diverse cultural traditions. Tribes residing in these lush rainforests skillfully harness the region’s resources to craft utilitarian and artistic creations such as houses, canoes, totems, and intricate wood carvings, each piece showcasing the ingenuity and artistry of rainforest culture.

A poster of the exhibition. File photos

Central to the exhibition is a remarkable collection of tropical rainforest wood carvings, meticulously curated to evoke the mystical charm of these verdant landscapes. Through innovative curation methods that blend field data, imagery, and multimedia installations, the exhibition delves into the ecological wisdom and cultural significance embedded within these creations, inviting audiences to forge deep connections between the rainforest and our existence. Beyond showcasing the beauty of rainforest culture, the exhibition prompts contemplation on whether new insights and creative inspiration can still be gleaned from the enigmatic secrets harbored by the rainforest today.

The “Songs of the Rainforest” showcases the allure of the tropical rainforest at OCAT.

Comprising five thematic zones — “Rain and Forest,” “Songs of the Canoe,” “Everything Has a Spirit,” “Jungle Theater,” and “Rainforest Market,” the exhibition offers a comprehensive glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry nurtured by this enigmatic ecosystem. With over 300 exquisite wood carvings on display, including 83 prized exhibits and over 200 market carvings meticulously amassed by collectors, these artworks breathe life into the historical legacy and cultural essence of the tropical rainforest. Bridging geographical and temporal boundaries, these carvings converge to take viewers on a mesmerizing cultural odyssey.

Exhibits on show at the exhibition.

Complementing the physical exhibits are a plethora of field visual materials that augment the narrative of the exhibition. By synthesizing collectors’ field data with rich cultural research, the curation team illuminates the significance of rainforest flora, totemic symbols, and traditional crafts across different regions. By unraveling the multifaceted layers of knowledge surrounding rainforest culture, the exhibition aims to harmonize diverse perspectives and collectively sing the captivating “Song of the Rainforest.”

Dates: Until March 16

Venue: Hall A, OCAT, South Area, OCT-LOFT, Nanshan District

Metro: Line 1 to Qiaocheng East Station, Exit A; then walk around 800 meters