Over the past decade, Zhang Ruyi has developed a precise and delicate sculptural material language. Engaging the grammar of the built environment, she creates installations and sculptures that evoke a post-apocalyptic aesthetic of detachment. Zhang’s work occupies a unique space that reconciles artefacts, the industrial experience, and urban life.
She uses ‘reality’ as ‘model’ for drawing out moments of individual perception as the city shifts around its inhabitants. As Zhang Ruyi’s largest institutional solo exhibition in recent years, this exhibition will feature a series of works commissioned by UCCA, further synthesising and refining the tension-filled dichotomous network of natural and human-made objects that feature in her work. This exhibition is curated by UCCA Assistant Curator Neil Zhang.
Zhang Ruyi’s work has been shown at the K11 Art Foundation, Hong Kong (2019); Shanghai Rockbund Art Museum, Shanghai (2018); UCCA Center for Contemporary Art, Beijing (2017); Cass Sculpture Foundation, Chichester (2016); Sifang Museum of Contemporary Art, Nanjing (2016); Shanghai Minsheng Art Museum, Shanghai (2015); and other institutions. Her solo exhibitions include Consciousness of Location (Don Gallery, Shanghai, 2019); Bonsai (Francois Ghebaly Gallery, Los Angeles, 2019); Building Opposite Building (Don Gallery, Shanghai, 2016); Pause (White Space, Beijing, 2016); Cut | Off (Don Gallery, Shanghai, 2014); and A Line (J: Gallery, Shanghai, 2014).
Text courtesy UCCA


A respected voice in contemporary art discourse.
Focusing on ambitious storytelling and insightful art-world commentary. Ocula Magazine publishes in-depth interviews, critical essays and timely analysis on the artists, exhibitions and ideas driving the global art world.
Learn more about Ocula Magazine
Showcasing the best of the art world.
Ocula partners with galleries from around the world to highlight their artists, artworks and exhibitions. Gallery membership is by application and invitation, with each member vetted by an independent panel.
Learn more about Ocula Membership
Specialises in the sale of major artworks.
Led by a team with deep ties to the world’s leading auction houses, galleries and collectors. Ocula’s advisory team offers bespoke services to high-net-worth clients from around the world who are looking to acquire the best of contemporary and modern art.
Learn more about our team and services