Y28 Studio
Jan 6, 2025

The 13th edition of the Ras Al Khaimah Art Festival (RAK Art Festival), held from 31 January to 28 February 2025 at the historic Al Jazeera Al Hamra Heritage Village, will celebrate the intricate beauty of the theme “Memory.” This year, for the first time, Y28 Studio and the esteemed Yao & Li family are proud to curate and sponsor “The Memory of Tea”, an exhibition that redefines how memory connects with nature, art, and tradition.
A Multi-Sensory Tribute to Memory and Nature
Y28 Studio’s installation, “Explore Your Nature: For Your Memory, Your Tea, Your Art”, takes audiences on an evocative journey through the fleeting yet powerful connections between memory and nature. At its heart is the timeless art of tea, presented not only as a drink but as a bridge between personal stories, cultural heritage, and artistic expression.
This exhibition unfolds through three interconnected narratives:
· Tea Sensory Art: A curated experience that highlights the profound emotional and cultural significance of tea.
· Traditional Pu-erh Tea Craft: Exploring the legacy of Yunnan’s drinkable antique, the display reveals the intricate processes and artistry behind one of China’s most celebrated teas.
· Artistic Collaborations: Works by Federico Jara and Roser Crua, including “Biology’s Memory” and “The Windows to Her,” capture the patterns of nature and feminine resilience.
The Yao & Li Family: Guardians of Tea’s Legacy
With deep roots in Yunnan Province, the Yao & Li Family are celebrated tea producers, art collectors, and curators. Their dedication to preserving the cultural heritage of tea spans decades, with a collection featuring rare artifacts, traditional tools, and records of diverse tea varieties. These items form the backbone of the exhibition, telling a story of tea’s connection to memory and transformation.
The family’s influence extends beyond tea. Their contributions to China’s fight against fascist forces during World War II underscore their unwavering commitment to heritage and community resilience. The family donated over 200 treasured artifacts to the nation, further demonstrating their commitment to preserving cultural heritage. Today, their global presence bridges cultures, reflecting a mission to honor shared histories and ensure that tea remains a profound symbol of connection and memory.
Celebrating Local Curator’s Role in Global Art
The invitation to curate at the RAK Art Festival, extended by the RAK Art and Sheikh Saud Bin Saqr Al Qasimi Foundation for Policy Research, underscores Y28 Studio’s growing influence in the art and cultural sectors. As the organizers stated:"Given Y28 Studio's renowned reputation for innovation and creativity, we are confident that this collaboration will add value to the festival and resonate strongly with our diverse audience."
This platform provides an opportunity for Y28 Studio to engage with regional and international art communities, contributing to the festival’s reputation as a dynamic hub for cultural exchange.
Honoring Memory, Art, and Tradition
Through “The Memory of Tea,” Y28 Studio and the Yao & Li family invite visitors to reflect on how memory weaves through culture, history, and the natural world. By showcasing tea as both a tangible artifact and an intangible symbol, the exhibition fosters a shared appreciation for the connections that bind humanity across time and traditions.
As the RAK Art Festival celebrates its 13th edition, “The Memory of Tea” stands as a tribute to the enduring legacy of tea and its ability to evoke stories, inspire creativity, and bridge cultural divides.
Visit us the Bayt 8 at the art park. More information about the festival, visit: https://www.rakart.ae/2025-festival
