Within the realm of creativity there exists a space where humour and art meld, forging a captivating path for artistic expression. Artists in this space wield humour as a tool, skillfully infusing their works with satire and irony to create pieces that transcend mere amusement. Instead, they plunge into the deeper layers of human experience. It is within this context that STIR explores Inside-Out, an ongoing solo exhibition of New York and London-based art and design duo Craig Redman and Karl Maier at the K11 Art Foundation in Guangzhou, China. Their journey through the realms of art challenges conventional norms with a blend of wit, irony and irreverence.

This exhibition aptly titled Inside-Out delves into the duality that defines our modern existence, where the physical and the virtual world merge seamlessly. These artists traverse the concept of ‘inside-out,’ which alludes to the interplay of interiority and exteriority, capturing both our inner worlds and the vast expanse of the external social environment. The heart of these contemporary artists' work lies in interpreting these dual elements through the lens of visual symbols and icons, offering a sense of lightness and an intricate narrative. The result is a dialogue that bridges the real and the imagined.

This exhibition embarks on a fascinating exploration of our ever-evolving relationship with the physical and virtual worlds, delving into the role of material objects within this dynamic. By integrating three-dimensional sculptural works and two-dimensional surfaces spanning a range of scales, from the grand to the intimate, this art exhibition immerses viewers into a contemplative world, compelling them to ponder on a collective obsession with material possessions and their emotional significance.

“We like to meet an audience where they are and to inject art into the everyday lived experience," shares the artists with STIR. When asked on how they balance the thought-provoking aspects of their art, they say, “There is a sort of magic in it, particularly with large scale installations that can provide a sense of escape and wonder. Once you get people in with simple ideas the deeper levels we build into our work can unravel and slowly reveal. It can have a heightened effect through that element of surprise; encountering new concepts in an unexpected context.”

Inside-Out is not only an exploration of concepts and a celebration of contemporary art, it is a complex tapestry woven by the artists with iconic symbols and cultural references, each carrying deep stories and messages. For instance, the exhibition incorporates installations inspired by traditional Chinese architecture, paying tribute to Paifang and stone columns that traditionally form square-shaped courtyards. The artists give these traditional concepts a fresh perspective, urging visitors to reevaluate their surroundings.

Beyond the architectural references, the exhibition delves into the transformation of our relationship with the physical and virtual domains. This exploration extends to material objects and their emotional significance. In one section, the audience transitions from objects from being observers to active participants, encouraged to share their emotions through the use of emojis. The chosen symbols come to life on screens throughout the installation, blurring the lines between art and the viewer, creating a dynamic immersive experience. In creating this exhibition, the installation artists, known as Craig & Karl, don’t limit themselves to a singular form of art. Each space within it stands as an installation in its own right. Their extensive practice which spans design, illustration, installation and sculpture, is represented seamlessly as a visitor's journey through different spaces.

One of the most fascinating aspects of their artistic journey is their collaboration. The creative process of this duo revolves around setting broad parameters, allowing ideas to evolve freely, always with the intention of arriving at the best solution for each unique project. Their shared journey is marked by elements that are characteristically their own, such as colour, pattern and a sense of fun. These elements, while universal, help to distinctly “distinguish” their projects, making them unmistakably Craig & Karl. With each new project, they often draw inspiration from their own archives, sparking new thought processes and innovative ideas.

In the exhibition, a specific piece that holds personal significance for the artists is the art installation known as Duality. This room features a collection of portraits, which have been at the core of their artistic practice for a significant period. For the purpose of this exhibition, they have created six ‘split’ portraits, uniting two different faces to create a singular entity. These subjects, who range from friends old and new, explore the ever-evolving dynamics of their relationships with each other and with the artists themselves.

"We love an opportunity to create an immersive and interactive environment. Our aim for Inside-Out is to invite viewers into the world of Craig & Karl and create a fun experience. Whether it's two-dimensional or three-dimensional work we approach them the same way; the idea comes first and the execution comes second,” shares the art and design duo with STIR on their approach to creating different types of art.

The exhibition invites us on a journey that goes beyond mere observation; it transforms us into active participants in a profound exploration of the tangible with the intangible. With Craig & Karl’s whimsical expressions, iconic symbols and humorous narratives as our companions, we are prompted to embrace the immersive experience. This exhibition encourages us to reflect on the worlds within and outside of ourselves, unearthing deeper layers beneath the surface of humour and art. It is a celebration of contemporary art, encapsulating the essence of the artists’ signature blend of wit, irony and irreverence.

‘Inside-Out’ is on view until November 13, 2023 at the K11 Art Foundation in Guangzhou, China