"The Land of Nothingness 无何有之乡" serves as a sanctuary for me to lay down my restless soul. This exhibition offers an exploration of my spiritual homeland and a contemplation of my personal experiences, drawing inspiration from the teachings of the Chinese philosopher Zhuangzi.

The exhibition begins by delving into the conflicts I face with the external world. As a woman who grew up in Quanzhou—a city known for its Hokkien language origins—and as someone who works and travels to various cities, I often feel like a foreigner. This sense of disconnection pervades whether I am in a bustling metropolis or back in my hometown. In places like Shanghai or New York, I feel a deep loneliness, for I alone understand my past and dreams. I attempt to reconnect with my cultural roots through diverse sources, such as Hokkien songs crafted by Taiwanese singers or the red tea my mother used to drink.As I approach my graduation, I find myself reflecting on the reasons for both escaping my hometown and seeking refuge in these urban jungles. This introspection has led me to rediscover my pain, love, and constant nostalgia as a young woman, ultimately inspiring the creation of this exhibition.During this transitional period, I find solace in the teachings of Zhuangzi, a revered Chinese philosopher who championed inner peace and metaphysical self-liberation. In my high school years, I was compelled to memorize quotes from Taoist representatives Zhuangzi and Laozi, which later left a subtle yet profound impact on me. The title of this exhibition is derived from a Zhuangzi quote: 

"You, sir, have a large tree and are troubled because it is of no use - why do you not plant it in a tract where there is nothing else, or in a wide and barren wild?" 

”今子有大树，患其无用，何不树之于无何有之乡“

Here, Zhuangzi underscores the significance of a carefree inner shelter for individuals. By juxtaposing my personal experiences with Zhuangzi's carefree spiritual portrayal, I strive to attain the ideal state he describes. My goal is to utilize this journey to heal past wounds and uneasy feelings as someone living abroad, seeking inner peace and a spiritual haven within a sense of belonging.