Interview with Jiawei Fu
Jiawei Fu (b.1998) was born and raised in Guangzhou, China. She has received a BFA in Interior Design from Pratt Institute, NY. Jiawei’s practice depicts mundanity and emptiness through surrealized reality. Utilize the understated diary to wake up subconsciousness and create new conversation between people. Her dedicated palette exposes the sugar-coated modern ignorance and relentlessness in all beings. Yet collision with egg yolk to bring back subtle similarities of just being alive. Her work is representing a perspective from the invisible introspection, creating a space for the viewer to reflect on their own, and addressing the mutual language that will be shared together for cherishing the unique sameness.
It starts as the reflection of the surroundings and ends as the reflection of oneself. The only reaction that the artist needs is the viewer's emotion.
Can you tell us about the moment you decided to pursue a career as an artist?
I don't think there's a single "moment" when I arrive at that decision. From a young age, I begin translating what I perceive, hear, and contemplate into my paintings. Art has consistently been intertwined with my life's fabric. However, I can pinpoint a distinct "moment" when I recognize that painting wields the potential to be a potent means of connection between individuals. This realization fuels my desire to extend my artistic career, aiming to touch the lives of a broader audience.
What kind of an artist do you ultimately see yourself?
I envision myself as a human-centric artist. I picture myself evolving into a conduit for individuals struggling to articulate themselves or share their narratives. My aspiration is to be the wellspring of ideas that resonate within the minds of each individual.
What do you want your art to convey to the people who see it? What is the meaning or creative motivation behind your work?
At the heart of my artistic expression lies the art of storytelling. Each series I create stands as a tribute to the compelling potency of narratives—an aspect of human existence that I hold in high regard. Narratives serve as conduits through which we grasp history, forge connections, make sense of the present, explore our identities, and weave the threads that interlace these dimensions.
I consider myself not just an observant spectator but also a devoted chronicler. My aim is to encapsulate each resounding narrative and present it in a distinctive fashion that has the power to enthrall and engage others. In my perspective, what might appear ordinary possesses its own uniqueness, and what stands out as extraordinary can also embody the familiar.
Can you tell us about the process you use to create your works? What is your typical workday routine?
My routine of sketching everyday moments remains constant. I derive happiness from illustrating visual depictions whenever my friends or those around me recount their life experiences. I consistently gravitate towards their facial expressions and movements, using these signals to craft a variety of imaginative connections. As time goes by, I merge and thread these components together into the final artwork.
Where do you find inspiration? What motivates you to create?
The tales concealed in every corner serve as my perpetual inspiration, and I discover motivation in the minutiae of my surroundings. For divinity often resides within the details and narratives they hold.
What has been your most outstanding achievement to date?
In recent years, my painting titled "Whispers of the Breeze" has risen as a notable accomplishment. Several art galleries have contacted me, expressing particular fascination with this artwork. Moreover, it received considerable acclaim at the red dot Miami event. Although I can't provide a definitive explanation, it's clear that numerous individuals view this piece as a reflection of their own identities. They've observed that the warm orange tones resonate with their inner pulse, determination, and liveliness. Intriguingly, the delicate touch of violet-blue succeeds in breaking through their guards, eliciting a waterfall of emotions.
What are your ultimate career goals?
My ultimate professional aspiration is to transform my studio into a haven for individuals navigating communication challenges. I aim for people to discover solace and their unique sources of inspiration within my creations. Through my work, they can encounter their own reflections while also glimpsing potential solutions to their struggles. Achieving fame is not my foremost objective; rather, aiding people holds greater significance. After all, it's people who serve as the driving force behind our artistic endeavors.
What are you working on now, and what can we expect from you soon?
Currently, I am preparing for my upcoming series, which is precisely timed to coincide with my artist residency at GlogauAir, GR. This new endeavor provides me with an exciting opportunity to explore novel artistic concepts and push the boundaries of my imagination. I am looking forward to the environment that the residency program will provide, which will allow me to immerse myself entirely in my creative process and collaborate with other skilled artists.
Interview questions by Marta Puig
Editor Contemporary Art Curator Magazine
