The final stop on the journey into the inner world of China’s Gen Z

The exhibition “Suspended Self – Perspectives on Generation Z between psychological landscapes and urban code” opened on 29 June 2026 in Budapest, Hungary. It is a research-based exhibition stemming from the seminar ‘Modernism, Postmodernism and the Present’, which Prof. Dr. Klaus Siebenhaar taught during the winter semester of 2025/26 at the Central Academy of Fine Arts (CAFA) in Beijing.

From the perspective of their own generation, CAFA students are seeking answers to their pressing questions about their identity and their relationship with society and art.

They reflect on the divide between the individual and society, the discrepancy between ideals and reality, the blurring boundaries between the virtual and the real, and the confusion and stagnation in personal development amidst rapid social change. Outdated ways of life no longer work, yet the future remains uncertain, and neither time nor society provides ready-made answers. Generation Z is striving, in its own way, to re-establish a dialogue with the world. It is turning inwards to explore its inner landscapes and, amidst the uncertainty, to search for its authentic self. At the same time, its members are heading into the cities to re-establish tangible connections with urban spaces.

The exhibition showcases works by Chinese and Hungarian Generation Z artists. Generation Z is no longer merely seeking answers or their own individual forms of expression; it seeks dialogue and interaction with the audience.

The venue is situated on the former site of the historic Dreher Brewery in Kőbánya, District 10, Budapest. The site, which is now recognised as a municipal cultural heritage site, is being transformed into art spaces by the 11_11 Foundation – a partner of the ‘Triple-B’ project – in collaboration with the Kőbánya District Council.

The reception on the opening day was met with a great and positive response. Visitors of all ages took part in the activities on site.

“Suspended Self” marks the conclusion of the Gen Z trilogy, which began in 2025 with the exhibition “Beijing – Berlin – Bohemian”.

Further information:
Exhibition Brochure
Public Education Handbook_From Avatar to Reality — A Gen Z Self-Portrait Handbook