Exploring Steph Huang: A Dialogue Between the Sea, Food, and Art

If you’re seeking a creative and thought-provoking exhibition, look no further than Steph Huang’s “See, See, Sea” currently on display at Tate Britain. This unique exhibition combines sculpture, sound, video, and found objects to prompt reflection on humanity’s relationship with food production, commercial systems, and marine ecosystems.

Exhibition Highlights

The title, “See, See, Sea,” is inspired by the traditional nursery rhyme A Sailor Went to Sea. It delves into the ways maritime trade shapes our daily lives. Through multi-medium creations, Huang reflects on the hidden impacts of food supply chains, highlighting how global trade threatens local fisheries, environments, and community life.

At the heart of the exhibition is a newly commissioned film documenting the fishing practices of a Devonshire village. The footage captures activities ranging from diving for scallops to weaving lobster pots, set against fragile hand-blown glass sculptures and found objects that echo the visuals in the film. These pieces reveal Huang’s sensitivity to materials while confronting viewers with issues of global food waste and resource overexploitation.

Huang’s work also cleverly intertwines the everyday with the artistic. For instance, a crushed supermarket trolley strewn across the gallery floor suggests the pressures of consumer systems, while neon signs reminiscent of fine dining establishments inject a subtle critique with a touch of irony.

The Inspiration Behind Huang’s Work

Since 2022, Huang has travelled to coastal towns and fish markets across the UK, gaining insights into the impact of globalisation on traditional fishing practices. The exhibition not only explores humanity’s growing disconnect from food but also raises concerns about the cultural loss caused by the relocation of iconic markets such as Billingsgate and Smithfield, which once provided Londoners with direct connections to their food and vibrant cultural exchanges.

These observations are woven into the multi-layered narrative of Huang’s works, which balance a critique of industrialisation with a profound reflection on the interconnectedness of human behaviour and the environment.

Why You Shouldn’t Miss It

Steph Huang’s work represents a brilliant fusion of art and social observation. Her innovative perspective invites us to reconsider our relationship with the environment. As part of Tate’s Art Now series, this exhibition not only provides a platform for emerging artists but also challenges viewers to re-examine overlooked aspects of everyday life.

Plan Your Visit

• Where: Tate Britain, London

• When: Until 5 January 2025

• Admission: Free

For a journey that’s as visually stunning as it is intellectually enriching, make your way to Tate Britain to experience how Steph Huang uses art to redefine our understanding of the world.

For more details, visit the Tate website.