Born in Guangzhou, China, Cao Fei emerged as a significant voice in contemporary art by capturing the experiences of the generation born after the Cultural Revolution. Her practice gained international attention for its focus on the impact of rapid modernization and foreign cultural influences on Chinese society.

Working across video, performance, and large-scale installation, Cao often utilizes digital media to investigate the relationship between technological innovation and human behavior. Her signature themes include the evolution of urban landscapes and the psychological effects of living in an increasingly digitized world.

Recent recognition includes a major solo exhibition at the Kunstmuseum Basel, which surveys two decades of her career, and the presentation of her project DASH at Sprüth Magers. These exhibitions highlight her ongoing inquiry into global technological shifts, ranging from urban infrastructure to the future of agricultural practices.