Présented at the Beijing Inside-Out Art Museum, the exhibition When the Monster is Speaking delves into the lingering social issues that have been exacerbated by the pandemic and our rapidly shifting media environment. Drawing inspiration from Mary Shelley's Frankenstein and the broader etymology of the word "monster," the exhibition explores how these creatures, as metaphors, reflect societal anxieties and technological fears across different eras. The exhibition underscores how today's "monsters" symbolize hidden fears, misinformation, and the complex interplay between reality and perception.

The exhibition, divided into two chapters — “Real Stories” and “Questioning the Monster” — presents 16 video and installation works by artists from ten countries. These works navigate geopolitical issues and personal encounters, employing various media to examine the "voices" of these monsters. The artists aim to dismantle the deceptive appearances of these metaphorical monsters, encouraging a deeper engagement with themes of fear, ignorance, and the biases of our times.

By showcasing diverse perspectives and probing the limits of our cognition, the exhibition aims to reclaim lost values of dignity and address the impact of societal alienation. It also endeavors to create a "new normal" characterized by resilience and a just, inclusive vision. These artistic endeavors serve as a powerful reflection on our current condition, urging us to recognize and address the enduring syndromes that shape our social reality.