
Step into the world of Xia Peng, an artist whose work transcends traditional boundaries, when “Unsorted Chapters” opens at Migrant Bird Space in Berlin on March 28, 2026. This exhibition promises to be a mesmerising exploration of the profound themes of attachment and the complex nature of artistic expression.
@migrant_bird_space / www.migrantbirdspace.com
Koppenplatz 5, 10115 Berlin
Tues-Sat 1-6 pm
With a rich background in both Chinese ink painting from the illustrious Central Academy of Fine Arts in Beijing and Western painting at Kunsthochschule Kassel, Xia brings a unique duality to his creations. His latest body of work blends these contrasting techniques, showcasing paintings stretched across unconventional canvases, think flattened cardboard boxes and vintage record sleeves. This innovative approach invites viewers to engage deeply with the art, prompting reflection on the very nature of the surfaces we often take for granted.

At the heart of this exhibition lies the concept of 执念 (zhí niàn), which beautifully encapsulates the weight of attachment and our human struggle to let go. Xia’s art reflects the subtle shifts in the world around us, as even a pigment’s formula can transform an artist’s practice and philosophy. This fluidity speaks to our modern experience, where certainty feels elusive, and the ground beneath our feet continues to shift.
A standout piece, “Bücher,” features books painted onto books, highlighting the idea of narratives sidelined and objects that were once full of life now felt as relics of a bygone era. Xia’s fascination lies not in the stories within the books but in the narratives they embody as physical objects, bridging a connection through presence where absence lingers.

“Unsorted Chapters” is an exhibition that invites you to ponder the intricate relationship between tradition and innovation, memory and materiality. Experience this captivating journey through Xia Peng’s artistic lens, where two worlds collide, and every brushstroke resonates with deeper meaning. Don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in this thought-provoking showcase in the heart of Berlin!

