Collection: Investigation in Porcelain

XY Zhou

Porcelain is one of the great arts that emerged from Ancient China. The techniques, materials, and strategies used to create authentic porcelain have a long history that is intertwined with colonization, imperialism, and capital. As with many Chinese art forms, the expression of philosophy and nature through art/poetry is prevalent in many ceramic pieces. 

As a first-generation American, XY Zhou explores their tentative connection with their motherland. Their art investigates the cultural drift of immigrants and the way that traditional Chinese culture has shaped their identity. Zhou is especially interested in the idea of traditionalism, memory, and fragmentation and will continue their artistic investigation.

Porcelain01: Oil on canvas, 30x40

 
Image Description: Oil painting of two heads, one that is blue and white in a traditional porcelain pattern, the other that is emerging from a pink flower.

Porcelain01

 
Image Description: Closer view of corner of head emerging from flower, brown eye and a slice of their head that looks like a slice of cake being eaten by the blue head.

Porcelain01 closeup

Image Description: Soft, young face of the blue and white head with intricate blue patterns and blue lips close up.

Porcelain01 closeup

Porcelain02: Digital

Porcelain02

 
Image Description: Close up of the face and blue patterns on the skin of the porcelain person.

Porcelain02 closeup

Porcelain03: Acrylic on wood (skateboard)

 
Image Description: Photo of a skateboard that is painted in shades of blue and brown porcelain style patterns.

Porcelain03

 
Image Description: Close up of painting on top portion of skateboard.

Porcelain03 closeup

Image Description: Close up of flowers, eyes, faces, and cat painted in shades of blue on bottom of skateboard.

Porcelain03 closeup

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