Amy Yao: AZN Clam at 47 Canal

AZN CLAM, by Amy Yao and on view at 47 Canal, are a collection of wall-mounted sculptures and a site specific installation that tackle the definition of invasiveness through language. Using the specific example of non-scientific names given to invasive plants and animals, Yao wants to point out the inherent xenophobia and anxieties of foreign origins. The title of Yao’s exhibition is in reference to the Asian Clam that migrated to the Americas in the late 1900’s. 

Using: concrete, pvc pipes, clam shells, and plastic pearls, and recognizable shapes, Yao uses common materials in her sculptures to create familiarity through  natural and unnatural spaces that inhabit. The sculptures are shaped in swirls, stars, and hearts, and contain seashells invading the concrete, in reference to the invasive Asian Clam. Around a corner, Yao’s  installation room is  bathed in bright warm light, and is partially open to viewers. All you can see of the office is through a partially open door. In a very corporate looking office room with shelving and a round table with chairs surrounding it, the floor of the office floor is filled with pearlescent plastic balls. Aiming to address and poke fun at the pedestal some arts masters and their work are put on, the romantic energy of the room is in contrast with the common ball pit. 

Comparing the installation room to the sculptural pieces, the room feels disconnected. While it might have come from a similar train of thought to the concrete works and fits into Yao’s overall dialogue, the sudden change of medium and color palette has the ball pit room seeming like an entirely different artist and an afterthought. 

- Sarit Luftman