The Golden Pig

About the Artwork

金猪 Golden Pig is a captivating seven-foot-tall public art installation made from plastic debris that delves into the intricate coding of the concept of a "pig" and its cultural significance. Drawing upon the rich symbolism of the Chinese zodiac, the artist explores the duality of meanings associated with this animal. In Chinese horoscope theory, the pig represents the twelfth animal of the Chinese Zodiac, symbolizing good fortune and luck. The Year of the Earth Pig, which commenced on February 5th, 2019, carries positive connotations within this cultural context.

However, the Western perception of a “pig" often carries negative associations, such as gluttony, greed, fatness, and uncleanliness. This stark contrast in cultural interpretations forms the foundation of the artist's exploration.

Deeply rooted in her Chinese heritage, the artist embraces the ethos of waste reduction and resourcefulness. In the past, China has been a significant recipient of recyclables from Canadian municipalities, establishing a symbiotic relationship between the two countries. However, in 2018, China ceased accepting these recyclables, prompting Canadians to confront the urgent need to reconsider their waste management systems.

By collaborating with the City of Edmonton Reuse Centre and engaging Edmonton's diverse communities, the art installation 金猪 Golden Pig serves as a celebration of waste itself, showcasing both its inherent beauty and its unsettling grotesquerie. The artwork invites viewers to reflect on the profound impact of waste on our environment, culture, and society.

Through her thought-provoking creation, the artist raises awareness about the necessity of reevaluating our waste systems and fostering sustainable practices. 金猪 Golden Pig stands as a powerful symbol, urging us to confront our relationship with waste and find innovative ways to preserve our planet's resources.

About the Artist

Yong Fei Guan is a talented Chinese-Canadian artist and illustrator known for her captivating work that explores themes of multicultural identity, politics, and their interconnectedness with environmental issues. With a degree in Fine Arts from the prestigious Emily Carr University of Art + Design, Guan has honed her artistic skills and developed a unique perspective that shines through in her creations.

Guan's artistic endeavours extend beyond the confines of galleries and studios as she actively participates in public and community art projects. Her involvement in various initiatives highlights her commitment to engaging with and inspiring her audience. Notable among these projects is the 塑胶狮 Su Jiao Shi YEGmidautumn2017, where Guan conducted workshops and organized a milk jug contest during the Mid-autumn Festival, using these everyday objects as a means of artistic expression. Additionally, she has contributed to YEGCANVAS 2015 and The Postcard Project 2013, utilizing art as a medium for initiating important conversations about the environment and fostering community engagement.

In her recent exhibition titled 金猪 Golden Pig, Guan showcased her innovative approach to public art by creating a remarkable seven-foot-tall installation. Constructed using 2000 six-pack rings diverted from the landfill, the installation not only captivated viewers with its aesthetic appeal but also conveyed a powerful message about sustainability and waste reduction.

Guan's artistic contributions have garnered recognition and acclaim. In 2018 and 2021, she was honoured with the Edmonton Artists' Trust Fund Award by the Edmonton Arts Council, a testament to her artistic excellence and dedication to her craft.

Yong Fei Guan's work serves as a bridge between cultures, drawing attention to important social and environmental issues through her artistic expressions. With her thought-provoking creations and unwavering passion, she continues to make a significant impact in the art world and beyond.