Icelandic artist's exhibition presents 'relics for the future'

“Lair: Relics for the future,” the first solo exhibition in Asia by Icelandic contemporary artist Sruli Recht, will open at the Sea World Cultural and Arts Center (SWCAC) this Saturday. 

Photos courtesy of SWCAC

Known for his forward-looking exploration of materials and their making processes, Recht is an innovative and unconventional artist and designer whose works weaves together art, high fashion and industrial design. His creations have been shown at events such as the New York Design Week and the Arnhem Fashion Biennale, as well as at art institutions such as the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C. and Museum Boijmans Van Beuningem in Rotterdam.

From working for Alexander McQueen in London to launching his own studio in Reykjavik, Recht’s two decades of experimentation has shaped his singular design philosophy. To him, materials are not simply materials but living “relics.” Drawing inspiration from anatomy and organic forms and using the human body as both a measure and a medium, his works probe themes of fragility, eternity and inheritance. By blending traditional techniques with cutting-edge technology, he continuously pushes the limits of various material techniques. 

An exhibition about materials, designs, senses, and philosophical reflections, “Lair: Relics for the future” attempts to construct a never-before-seen world where materials and objects break away from industrial logic and instead follow the earth’s primal forces of creation. From fabric made from electrolytic minerals to a sculpture resembling human skin crafted from semi-transparent leather, Recht’s breathtaking “relics for the future” explore the possibilities of materials and tell a mysterious story of life’s evolution.  

As its theme “lair” suggests, the exhibition experience simulates a deep exploration into a future human lair. The entire space is designed as a unified narrative installation, where lighting, sound, temperature and scent are all meticulously curated to guide visitors on an immersive, multisensory journey. 

What is the essence of a human lair? And what is the meaning of future, life and objects? Visitors are invited to find their own answers through this exhibition.

Dates: Dec. 6-March 3, 2026

Hours: 10 a.m.-7 p.m. (weekdays), 10 a.m.-9 p.m. (weekends)

Tickets: 98 yuan (early-bird ticket for one visitor), 188 yuan (early-bird ticket for two visitors), free for SWCAC members

Ticketing: WeChat miniprogram "One蛇口"

Venue: Coastal Gallery, L1, Sea World Culture and Arts Center, Nanshan District (南山区海上世界文化艺术中心L1滨海展馆)

Metro: Line 2 or 12 to Sea World Station (海上世界站), Exit A, then walk around 800 meters