The embodiment of mixed media and collaged ideas is often the common thread woven through the contemporary art world. From the usage of video projections to layers of found objects, artists today are finding alternative ways to create visually aesthetic work that reveals their esteemed experiences within a public domain. For Zhuang Hong Yi, the collision of experience and worldly influence exposes his Chinese background and his journey to represent his sophisticated style with his use of varying colors, themes, shapes and materials. In his first major solo show in the United Kingdom, Hong Yi’s exploration of his cultural background amidst his Western influence is represented in several extraordinary works that illuminate the gallery space with bright colors and vibrant imagery.
Zhuang is an internationally-renowned and critically-acclaimed artist. Opening up the Venice Biennale for four consecutive years, Hong Yi is a creative force to reckon with. His vibrant textural works illustrate his mixed cultural heritage and fuses traditional Chinese artistic practices with a contemporary conceptual aesthetic. Using various media, Hong Yi heavily layers his works to add depth and dimensions on the canvas, but also reinforce the complexities of his mixed cultural influences. Though he still has a studio in Beijing, China, Hong Yi lives and works in Rotterdam with his wife and two children. Visiting Beijing from time to time, Hong Yi constantly searches for new materials there and inspiration to further build and explore his creative process.
Hong Yi manipulates thousands of rice paper flowers as well as both oil and acrylic paint to form colorful petals on canvas that sing with vibrancy. His bright works are still meditative and allude to nature, stillness and form, common themes found throughout Chinese art. Additionally, his expressive craftsmanship mimics the European Impressionist movement and allows for a brilliant fluidity to dance and converse through his paintings.
Hong Yi has had over 30 international solo shows and has continued to reveal his cultural heritage through his vibrant layers on the canvas. Hong Yi’s special exhibition will be held at the Unit London from September 18 through October 17, 2015. The Unit London is proud to hold this exceptional exhibition at their new location at 147 Wardour Street, London W1F 8WD.
