Ranran Fan

Inhale the Interruption 动弹 invites an interruption within the immediacy of living. In Chinese culture the burning of incense was used to measure time as well as recall endearing experiences. For Ranran Fan, this scent interrupts cycles of conditioned adverse thoughts, opening pathways to the mind’s vast possibilities. Through these visceral connections, psychological traumas can be addressed with serenity, patience, and strength.

This exhibition seeks the audience’s participation in this process. After experiencing the incense, visitors are invited to submit their responses to this encounter which will be analyzed by a custom chatbot trained from personal writings of Fan. Using the artist’s sentiments as its model, the chatbot will respond audibly. Entering further into the gallery, visitors will discover a series of automated time-telling sculptures and interactive video projections that will react to both breath and the movement of each audience member. Completing the immersive experience is a sundial sculpture that beckons the viewer to experience it outside. Together, these elements form a three-part installation that explores the passage of time and the potential for healing.

About the Artist

Ranran Fan is a device-maker and an artist who works in installation, new media and performance. They have presented their immersive installations in solo exhibitions in Hallie Ford Museum of Art (Salem, OR), The Print Center (Philadelphia, PA), Currents 826 (Santa Fe, NM), No Land (Santa Fe, NM), and Sanitary Tortilla Factory (Albuquerque, NM). Their work has also been included in group exhibitions internationally such as Academy Art Museum, SITE Santa Fe, Santa Fe Art Institute, Tamarind Institute, OCT Contemporary Art Terminal (China), Wind H Art Center (China) and Incheon Marine Asia Photography and Video Festival (Korea). They participated in several residencies such as SOMA Summer (Mexico) and Leonardo@Djerassi (U.S.). They are currently an Assistant Professor of New Media Art at the University of North Texas.

*Please note that this exhibition is in very low light and prominently features scent-based elements that fill the gallery space. Visitors with sensitivities to odors or strong fragrances, or with other access needs mobility needs and require accommodations, please contact Jordan Nelsen at [email protected] in advance. We are happy to provide additional information or assist in creating a more accessible experience.