Shadow of the AI Age
2017-2023
site-specific installation, hand-cut paper, light

‘Shadow of the AI Age’ is a site-specific hand-cut paper installation examining the phenomenon of artificial intelligence (AI) and expresses concern for the potential threat to the survival and future of humanity.

Zu continues her exploration of the interplay between light and shadow. On the roof of the dwelling, she creates motifs manipulating text and images in response to one aspect of the current AI revolution. ‘I create a visual language to reveal unspoken stories and missing myths. When the light’s on, it casts shadows on the walls to reveal shapes and dialogue with viewers.’ Zu said. ‘The round table on the ground holds a dish of food. The setting suggests a scene from long ago when our ancestors gathered together to tell stories while eating. To me, the truth and stories are always in search. So I painted over 30-meter-long film frames and cut out the contents of each frame to signify the lost memories and oral history.’

Zu’s signature working method is painting with scissors. Under her red scissors exposes a scorpio symbolising sensitivity and intuition.

When viewers enter the space, their shadows are cast on the wall. They are both observers and participants. Zu believes humankind created AI to help overcome the ecological crisis in the environmental urgency. However, according to the laws of nature, everything is interconnected.

Zu questions: ‘Will our human history continue? How do we shape culture? Will the age of AI lead to the disappearance of human civilisation?’