Current Exhibitions

"Many of the paintings in this exhibition are inspired by Chinese philosophical writings and poetry, such as that of Zhuang Zi and Lao Zi who often use imagery, poetry and anecdotes to convey the idea that by understanding nature we can achieve fulfilment and happiness.

A constant theme in Chinese philosophy is that of change - ultimately everything changes - night into day, young into old, and this is exemplified in the theory of yin and yang. Yin is associated with the quiet, calm nourishing aspects of life, while yang is the dynamic, moving functioning aspects. One cannot exist without the other. When opposites come together this can bring disquiet and conflict. Yet they can also bring creativity and change and progression.

It is this change and movement that I am interested in, both in my work as a Chinese Medical Practitioner and as an Artist.

My artwork is physical, visceral, sometimes seemingly chaotic but with an inherent order. I am not interested in sleek perfection, but in something that is in process. I use bitumen in my paintings - a form of tar, which continues to move over time. Through the organic shapes and placing of the paint, I hope to convey a feeling of movement, energy or Qi, 'life-force', in the paintings."

Anna Kiff is currently completing a part-time degree in Fine Art at Central Saint Martins. In addition to her painting she often works as a sculptor, particularly with wax where she has developed her interest in transient mediums evident in this exhibition. She has also created and exhibited performance work. Previous exhibitions include Waterloo Gallery (November 2007) with the Precocious Collective, which she co-curated. She has been practicing acupuncture and tuina for 12 years and is fascinated by the links between Chinese medicine and art. Anna lives and works in London.

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