Liang Shaoji, Chinese Artist Who ‘Collaborated’ with Silkworms, Has Died at 81
Chinese artist Liang Shaoji, known for installations made in collaboration with silkworms, died in Shanghai at age 81 after an illness, according to an announcement by ShanghART Gallery. Beginning in 1989, Liang developed his long-running “Nature Series,” introducing silkworms to objects ranging from shoes and plastic cups to iron chains, oil barrels, and earthquake debris, allowing the insects to spin silk over them as part of the artwork. ShanghART said his practice explored time, life, transformation, and creation through sculpture, textiles, film, performance, and sound, and Liang described his art in a 2017 interview as rooted in “experience and meditation.” His 2024 solo exhibition “Sea of the Cloud” at the Sea World Culture and Arts Center in Shenzhen featured silkworm-spun silk on a massive iron chain set before filmed ocean imagery, reflecting his interest in resilience and Eastern philosophies. Liang’s use of live animals as artistic collaborators drew occasional criticism, which he addressed in past interviews.
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