Christine Sun Kim and Thomas Mader's 'Lighter Than Air' explores deaf-hearing communication gaps at White Space Beijing

The exhibition 'Lighter Than Air,' featuring the works of Christine Sun Kim and Thomas Mader, is on display at White Space Beijing from May 23 to July 27. It addresses the misconceptions between deaf and hearing individuals through installations that do not rely on direct sign language. A key piece, ATTENTION (2022), showcases large red inflatable arms that fail to reach a boulder, symbolizing the challenges of ASL gestures and communication. This project marks a shift from Kim's earlier emphasis on American Sign Language. The theme of air as a communication medium is prevalent, with noses symbolizing the disregard for deaf culture. Running Gag (2024) includes 164 noses representing delegates from the 1880 Milan Congress, which prohibited sign language education. The video LOOKY LOOKY (2018) features Kim and Mader employing nonmanual signals, underscoring differences in communication skills. Kim stresses the importance of clear communication to prevent misunderstandings.