Fire Horse

Artspace is proud to present Fire Horse by multidisciplinary Chinese Australian artist Jake Yang for the 20th anniversary celebration of OzAsia Festival. This exhibition presents new ceramic work by Jake alongside hundreds of handmade ceramic tiles made in collaboration with artists from Minda's MyPath Visual Arts and Pottery programs. Every ceramic tile bears the intricate impressions of decorative Chinese placemats that are rich with symbolism and cultural storytelling.

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The installation will transform throughout OzAsia Festival through artist-led workshops. Participants will paint their own ceramic tile, adding colour, character and personal expression. Jake's work encourages viewers and participants alike to reflect on their own Chinese Zodiac animal and the personal qualities they relate to. One tile and one story at a time, this evolving installation will transform into a vibrant mosaic - a true reflection of the OzAsia community it represents.

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The work draws inspiration from this year's Chinese Zodiac, the rare Year of the Fire Horse, a pairing associated with energy, boldness and independence. Reframing traditional decorative motifs through a contemporary lens, Jake reflects on his experience as a third-generation Chinese Australian and reconnects with a cultural identity he once neglected.

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Driven by an exploration of culture and identity, Jake's work combines contemporary youth culture with traditional Chinese symbolism. His practice challenges normative assumptions while actively fostering empowerment and self-acceptance. His work invites audiences into an inclusive space that acknowledges the past while stepping into a dynamic future.

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Artspace is curated by Adelaide Festival Centre in Partnership with; OzAsia Festival, MINDA Inc. & Adelaide Festival Centre Foundation.

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Photography by Rosina Possingham