Beneath the Skin

Beneath the Skin explores the relationship between human anatomy and botanical structures through an imagined process of internal transformation.

Created in acrylic on canvas, the work draws attention to visual similarities between roots, veins, tissues, and other organic systems. Cheng Chang combines these references to construct a speculative organism in which the distinction between plant and body becomes increasingly uncertain.

The painting reflects the artist’s wider investigation into anthropocentrism and posthumanist ideas. Rather than maintaining a clear separation between humanity and the natural world, Beneath the Skin imagines biological boundaries becoming porous, allowing different forms of life to intersect and develop within one another.

Here, the body is not presented as a closed or independent system. It becomes an environment capable of hosting change, symbiosis, and unfamiliar forms of growth.

Through surreal biological imagery, the work invites viewers to look beyond the visible surface and reconsider the boundaries through which humans traditionally define species, identity, and the body itself.

Beneath the Skin begins with an imagined view of life hidden below the visible surface. Much of a living organism exists beyond what can immediately be seen: roots extend beneath the soil, veins carry life through the body, and internal systems continuously grow, connect, and respond to their surroundings. Cheng Chang draws upon these parallels between botanical structures and human anatomy to imagine a form of life that belongs fully to neither. The painting turns attention inward. Organic structures appear to emerge from beneath an exterior layer, suggesting that another biological system is developing quietly within. The title Beneath the Skin refers not only to physical anatomy, but also to the boundary between what is visible and what remains concealed. The surface becomes temporary, while the organism underneath appears capable of transformation. Through this imagined encounter between plant and body, Cheng Chang suggests that identity may be less stable than it appears—and that unfamiliar forms of life may already be taking shape beneath familiar surfaces.

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Each artwork is carefully prepared and securely packaged to help ensure safe delivery. Protective wrapping, reinforced corner protection, and sturdy outer packaging are used to safeguard the artwork throughout transit. Package Dimensions: 47 × 36 × 10 cm Package Weight: 0.9 kg If you require custom framing or professional mounting services, please contact us by email before placing your order or prior to shipment. As framing requirements, packaging specifications, destination, and shipping conditions may vary for each artwork, framing and shipping costs will be individually assessed and quoted on a per-artwork basis. Our team will recommend an appropriate packing and shipping solution based on the specific work to help ensure it arrives safely and ready for your space.

To preserve the color, texture, and condition of this acrylic painting on canvas, display the artwork indoors in a stable environment away from prolonged direct sunlight, excessive heat, and high humidity. Avoid placing the artwork close to radiators, fireplaces, air-conditioning vents, or areas subject to significant temperature fluctuations. For routine care, gently remove surface dust with a clean, soft, dry brush or microfiber cloth. Do not apply water, alcohol, household cleaners, or chemical cleaning products directly to the painted surface. Avoid touching the painted surface with bare hands whenever possible. When moving the artwork, handle it carefully by the outer edges or stretcher frame rather than the painted surface.