Xiaowen Zhu's film 'Brief Encounters on the Milky Way' screens at Tintype gallery in London
Xiaowen Zhu's 2017 film 'Brief Encounters on the Milky Way' is currently on display at Tintype gallery in London until Saturday 13 January. The work captures an astronaut navigating Essex Road, alternating between street walks and appearances behind a large shop window. This surreal scenario tests public reactions to the unusual, with bemused passersby becoming active participants in the encounter. Zhu, an artist, filmmaker, and writer, explores diasporic experiences through her practice. The film is one of eight commissions by Tintype, highlighting its focus on innovative moving image works.
Key facts
- Xiaowen Zhu created the film 'Brief Encounters on the Milky Way' in 2017
- The film features an astronaut on Essex Road in London
- It shows the astronaut walking down the street and standing behind a shop window
- Passersby react to the bizarre sight, becoming participants
- The work tests tolerance and openness toward the unfamiliar
- Zhu is an artist, filmmaker, and writer addressing diasporic experiences
- The film is part of eight commissions by Tintype gallery
- It is on view at Tintype in London until Saturday 13 January
Entities
Artists
- Xiaowen Zhu
Institutions
- Tintype
Locations
- London
- United Kingdom
- Essex Road