Qianqian Ye
from the series Alone Not Alone
Artist Statement
"My work is a metaphor for ordinary human interaction. Each piece reveals the vulnerable and awkward aspects of daily social life, which normally remain unspoken. I deal with the moments that are mundane: an internal monologue, an uncomfortable silence, a night of petting a cat.
Influenced by my study of traditional Chinese calligraphy from a young age, my recent practice depicts human interaction with ink and water. Growing up I always felt slightly confused during social interaction, and often felt unsure how to read social cues. This curiosity to explore vulnerability and isolation is heightened by my experience as an immigrant to the U.S. and as a woman of color. I visualize these personal and universal vulnerabilities in my ink paintings. The minimal figurative shapes and narrative titles I choose for each painting build an emotional structure, creating a conversation with the viewers that invites them to make their own stories."
Influenced by my study of traditional Chinese calligraphy from a young age, my recent practice depicts human interaction with ink and water. Growing up I always felt slightly confused during social interaction, and often felt unsure how to read social cues. This curiosity to explore vulnerability and isolation is heightened by my experience as an immigrant to the U.S. and as a woman of color. I visualize these personal and universal vulnerabilities in my ink paintings. The minimal figurative shapes and narrative titles I choose for each painting build an emotional structure, creating a conversation with the viewers that invites them to make their own stories."
Qianqian Ye is a Chinese born artist and designer based in San Francisco. Emerging from an architecture background she explores the complexities of human interaction in various media including architectural design, new media, and ink painting. She recently wrapped up her solo show 'Alone Not Alone' at The Laundry Gallery in San Francisco.