Bård Breivik's 'Listen' - till Nov. 8

The Beijing-based Norwegian sculptor has his first exhibition in China

Sculptor Bård Breivik is well known in Europe but though he has had a studio in Beijing for over a decade, this marks the 58-year-old Norwegian’s first exhibition in China.

Breivik often produces massive public sculptures. Here, in Imagine Gallery’s newly renovated split-level space in Feijiacun, he presents smaller works in various mediums including crystal, stainless steel, copper and silver. The original ideas that inspire Breivik are often abstruse and scientific, but he manages to translate the mathematical beauty of an idea into the elegance of simple materials.

Stephen Hawking’s ‘string theory’ is explored here in a series of irregular ovals which bulge in places and are stretched thin in others. As different centres of gravity seemingly fight with each other, the masculine energy of each bulge is balanced by the feminine shape of the whole oval. Hawking’s theory, however abstract, is given sensuous form.

The other main series here is just as sensuous, but less compelling than the ‘string theory’ works. At a convivial and bustling opening reception, Breivik said that he has been fascinated with noses in Europe but that here in China he became intrigued by people’s ears. Accordingly, the show is called Listen, and the space has several ear sculptures placed here and there.

But we’re not convinced he brings anything fresh to the table. Fortunately, Breivik’s love of formal experimentation still shines. The best works seem to vibrate with a life of their own, as on the second floor, in his beautiful and rippling rendering of the Doppler Effect.

Imagine Gallery. 8 Feijiacun Yishu Gonzuoshi, Feijiacun, Laiguangyindonglu, Chaoyang district (6438 5747; www.imagine-gallery.com). 朝阳区来广营东路费家村8号. Until November 8, 2009. Open 10.30am-5.30pm Tue-Sun.

Stacey Duff