Brazilian artist Marepe's installation, Canone. [Photo provided to China Daily]

Tian criticizes people's growing desires that, in turn, transform them into something with an intense desire for more, just like the disfigured tiger in his work.

Another aim of the exhibition is, as its Chinese subtitle suggests, to demonstrate the emerging markets' efforts to gain cultural identity and independence, while finding alternative approaches to development.

Brazilian artist Marepe's installation Canone (canon in Portuguese) features dozens of black umbrellas loosely threaded together in vertical columns and hung up in the air.

Marepe compares the union of umbrellas to the link between heaven and people on Earth, and between the spiritual and the earthly worlds. His creation shows connections with history and cultural traditions of northern Brazil, where he was born.

Mosquera, the curator, says the exhibition is full of metaphors that viewers will find interesting.

"Artists express their ideas and attitudes quite clearly. We are to discuss the world at this time," he says.

Contact the writer at linqi@chinadaily.com.cn

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