In the “Tools” series, XU ZHEN® combines Western classical architectural culture with every-day objects in the era of globalization, thus deconstructing both the classic and the contemporary in a humurous and incisive way. With the mutual transformation of sublimity and functionality, this series probes the sensory boundaries of viewing and using, as well as our cognitive standards for civilization and art.

The Dresden Frauenkirche is a Lutheran church in Dresden, Germany. Originally built between 1726 and 1743, it is considered an outstanding example of Protestant sacred architecture, featuring one of the largest Baroque domes in Europe. Connecting its dome with a wine opener, XU ZHEN® dramatically transforms this crystallization of modern Western religious and architectural art into an everyday object fit for consumption and use. In this moment of suspense in the sculpture, once the viewer accepts the viewing logic as set by the artist, they cannot help but wonder or expect what will happen after the "opening". This is precisely the starting point of our reflection on historical narratives and our exploration of the edges of civilization and art.