Cosmodreams Project Continues with Chrysalis at Beijing Contemporary Art Fair
The ART021 Beijing Contemporary Art Fair concluded on May 25, 2025, having welcomed thousands of visitors over four days. One of the notable features of the event was the immersive solo exhibition Chrysalis by acclaimed Russian artist Marina Fedorova, presented by Sputnik Partners at Booth G01. The exhibition captivated audiences with its poetic exploration of transformation, nature, and technology through a distinctly feminine lens.
Drawing crowds from around the globe, including artists, collectors, curators, and media, Chrysalis created a dynamic and engaging environment that invited viewers not only to observe, but to participate. Marina Fedorova’s integration of multiple media — including painting, sculpture, lenticular printing, and augmented reality — created a layered, interactive experience. Viewers were encouraged to use their smartphones to activate AR content embedded in the artworks, extending the narrative beyond the physical installation and deepening the emotional connection.
The exhibition transformed the booth into a contemplative, light-filled space, where stories of metamorphosis and inner growth unfolded. “I explore the moment of transition — the pause between past and future, when everything holds still before a new ascent,” Fedorova said, emphasizing her vision of technology as a means to reestablish harmony with nature rather than disrupt it.
One of the highlights of the fair was the roundtable discussion “Women Artists: Nature, Technology, and Cultural Synthesis,” held on the opening day. Moderated by Xiao Ge, Editor-in-Chief of Phoenix Art, the forum featured Marina Fedorova alongside Peng Wei, a leading Chinese ink artist. The dialogue offered a compelling comparison of artistic approaches across cultures and generations, examining how female voices are shaping contemporary perspectives on nature and innovation.
Visitors to Chrysalis were deeply moved, describing the installation as “a soft digital world” and remarking that the works seemed to “breathe with the body.” This positive reception reflects growing interest in immersive, sensory-driven art that bridges the physical and digital.
Chrysalis marked a significant contribution to ART021 Beijing’s programming and underscored the global relevance of Russian contemporary art. As part of the ongoing Cosmodreams project, it reinforced Fedorova’s commitment to addressing ecological, social, and philosophical themes through cutting-edge media and a nuanced, personal voice.
The Cosmodreams showcase, curated by Sputnik Partners, was included in the official art fair catalogue.