Cai Guo-Qiang: The Artist Who Lets Gunpowder Speak

Working with gunpowder as his primary medium, Cai Guo-Qiang creates art that exists at the intersection of destruction and creation. Born in 1957 in Quanzhou, China, the New York-based artist has spent decades developing his signature technique of controlled explosions that transform canvas, paper, and space into works of profound beauty and philosophical depth. ‘People often think I like fireworks. But what I really like is the energy and the impact that comes from explosions,’ he says.

People often think I like fireworks. But what I really like is the energy and the impact that comes from explosions.

Cai Guo-Qiang

His artistic journey began in his hometown, where traditional Chinese medicine and Taoist philosophy shaped his understanding of transformation and energy. Now working from his expansive studio, Cai continues to push the boundaries of his medium, creating works that bridge Eastern philosophy and contemporary art practice.

In collaboration with Art Basel Paris

The studio visit reveals the methodical aspect of his work. Each explosion is choreographed, yet surrenders to chance, embodying the artist’s belief in controlled chaos. As he explains in the film, ‘Once the work is done, I always feel grateful, because I have received love and support from it.’ ◼