Yuhong Gan is a Chinese photographer currently based in London. She is interested in exploring the similarities between plant forms and skin conditions. Through the mediums of photography, ceramics, fabrics, and more, she makes connections between the two and attempts to cope with the anxiety of experiencing skin problems by drawing inspiration from the wide variety of plant forms found in nature.
Yuhong Gan
The project, named "The Blemish Garden,"aims to explore the similarities between plant surfaces and skin conditions as a way to address the appearance anxiety caused by such conditions. As someone who has personally experienced skin conditions, I understand the anxiety and shame they can bring, leading individuals to hide their skin. Through this work, my goal is to provide comfort and encouragement to myself and others facing similar challenges. It is essential to recognize that these so-called "blemishes" are common in both people and nature, representing unique aspects of ourselves that can even be transformed into works of art. To emphasize the concept, I chose to work with craft porcelain frames for this project. In Chinese culture, porcelain is often associated with perfect skin, but in reality, porcelain itself can have rough pores and uneven surfaces. By using this material, I aim to challenge the notion of flawless skin. Additionally, I incorporated fabric, which is often referred to as a person's "second skin," to create a contrast. The flexibility of the fabric allows the depicted pimples to stand out on a flat surface, resembling real skin problems. Through the combination of porcelain and fabric, I aim to evoke a deeper understanding and appreciation of the complexities of skin conditions.
