What are you going to work with at IFIKK?
I work in affiliation with the ERC-funded project An Ecological History of Eurasian Art (1500-1800) led by Anna Grasskamp. I focus on human interaction with geographic and climate resources in the Pearl River Delta in China from 1500 to 1800. My current research investigates thunder and lightning - how were the celestial phenomena represented and interpreted in art and visual culture in the Ming and Qing dynasties?
I also lead the Collaborative Junior Research Team "Creative Agency and Environmental Humanities," funded by OCEH. The project addresses how creative practice becomes a method of eco-critical research. It explores the power and potential of the artist-researcher to trigger ecological consciousness and support actions beyond academia.
Can you tell us a bit about your research interests?
I mainly work in the intersection of the history of science, agriculture, folk beliefs, and visual culture in (early) modern China. I try to incorporate anthropological and ethnographical methods into historical research, to make present the marginalized actors and inadequately discussed questions in written history. I am also applying digital tools to the humanities.
My previous PhD project examined illustrated botanical books in China from the 16th to the 19th century, focusing particularly on the production and dissemination of knowledge on famine foods, their social and ecological implications, and connections with contemporary practices. From 2015 to 2018, I worked on "Socially Engaged Art in Contemporary China" to archive art projects in China that addressed environmental activism, labor issues, GLBT rights, urban space, community displacement, and art education.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I cook a lot and enjoy searching for surprises in groceries from different regions. I am a general museum goer that explores all kinds of new things. Sometimes I make zines with friends.