Dian Jin / 靳典 (b.1999, China)
Working and studying in London
Education:
BA Oil Painting, Guangzhou Academic of Fine Arts (GAFA), Guangzhou, China, 2017-2021
MA Print, Royal College of Art, London, UK, 2022-2023
Recent and upcoming exhibitions:
Intrigued by the intricate tapestry of relationships that permeate reality, I find solace in the emotions and power that course through them.
My artistic exploration delves into the feelings of helplessness and isolation individuals often experience when confronted with the freedoms and challenges of modern society. It is an exploration that uncovers a propensity to escape reality and compromise one's authentic self.
Within my practice, the interplay of cuteness, irony, and storytelling assumes a pivotal role in conveying imagery. I employ the concept of 'cuteness' to delve into the complexities and pitfalls inherent in everyday interpersonal relationships—a seemingly praiseworthy attribute that also serves as a conduit for power dynamics. It expands our comprehension of how individuals perceive and relate to one another within our fluid society.
Painting and mixed media serve as the focal point of my creative endeavors. By skillfully incorporating various elements and textures, I construct virtual visual images that establish a fluid, ethereal, and unconventional space. This space serves as a transformative tool for perceiving individual identity, allowing viewers to engross themselves more attentively in their own selves.
We are all in the quest for the warmth we once had. However, the end result might just be that we stumble upon the old toys from our childhood, and when we grow tired of playing with them, we find ourselves returning to our own selves.
Through my mixed media collages, I aimed to express how lovely things can be attractive and important in people's lives. While they can bring joy, happiness, relaxation, and pleasure, it's important to recognize that images of cuteness can also have aggressive undertones.
