10 Questions with Shiyao Xia

Shiyao Xia (1998, China) is a London-based artist who completed a undergraduate diploma in Fine Art at the Guangzhou Academy of Fine Art in 2020 and received her MA in Illustration from University of Art London in 2022. Her works have been exhibited in China, Italy and UK.

www.shiyaoxia.com | @shiyaoo.x

ARTIST STATEMENT

Shiyao Xia's artistic journey began at the age of four when she was introduced to the world of Chinese painting. This early exposure laid the foundation for her future artistic endeavors. During her undergraduate studies, she delved into various mediums such as oil painting, printmaking, photography, and ceramics. These diverse experiences have culminated in her current artistic style of mixed media.

She explores the concept of what is remembered as ephemeral and influenced by experiences felt at the time of observation. How does a change of place affect memory, and how do these shape "us"? Her work is inspired by the small, unassuming things in the corner of our eyes that hold a multitude of hidden narratives. Looking for the relationship between memories and multiple meanings.

We can find a profound relationship between memory and the multiple layers of meaning embedded within her works. Inspired by the seemingly insignificant objects at the edges of our vision, her work reveals the hidden stories they carry. She explores the concept that the things we remember are fleeting and deeply influenced by the experiences we have at the moment of observation. How does the transformation of places affect our memories, and in turn, shape our identities?

"Pieces of Thames" is a deeply evocative artwork that intricately explores the relationship between memory and its myriad meanings. It comprises three meticulously detailed segments, each representing a unique aspect of the river’s existence.

This independent publication delves into themes of time, change, and continuity, taking the viewer on a journey along the Thames, where passing stories and fragmentary memories overlap with realities. The artist's relocation from childhood to the present has always been accompanied by a river, and upon arriving in London, the Thames became a reflection of who she used to be.

By engaging with locals, she discovered that many were not born and raised in London, leading to an intertwining of old and new memories. This intersection of past and present raises questions about the traces left by these flowing memories as they change and dissipate along the still river.

The river serves as a metaphor for life’s journey, composed of individual moments that collectively form a larger narrative. The interplay of light and shadow, texture and form, draws viewers into a contemplative state, urging them to reflect on their connections to the spaces and histories around them. Transparent paper is used to depict how memories overlap through time, with repeated descriptions of words—symbols belonging to various people—found at the bottom.

Each fragment of the Thames depicted in the art invites viewers to consider the river not just as a physical entity, but as a repository of countless personal and collective memories, blurring the line between past and present.

INTERVIEW

Let's talk about yourself first. Please share a bit about your artistic journey and what initially drew you to pursue an art career.

I've loved art since I was little. I can still remember being four or five, sitting for hours copying characters from comic books with full focus. Later on, I even started creating my own imaginary worlds. It seems my mom caught on to my passion then she enrolled me in children's interest courses. There, I got to try out different kinds of drawing, including Chinese painting and stuck with it for about six years. Art gradually became a big part of my life, and the dream of being an artist germinated in me, after which I got my bachelor's degree in painting in China and then went on to get a postgrad diploma in illustration from the University of the Arts London.

You have a diverse background in various art forms, such as Chinese painting, oil painting, printmaking, photography, and ceramics. How do you integrate these different mediums into your artwork, and what challenges or benefits do you find in working across multiple disciplines?

The benefit of knowing different mediums is that you can have more options as well as possibilities when dealing with different subjects and never get bored. The coexistence and overlap of different artistic practices and mediums often give rise to new dialogues during the creation and production of works. This dynamic interplay tends to effectively nurture the development and emergence of certain languages or forms of expression.
The challenge for me is how to use different mediums while still maintaining my own style or having my own unique style.
In the "Pieces of Thames" project, I attempted to merge photography and printmaking using computer technology. This approach aimed to provide viewers with access to more information and foster new interpretations, which was the primary intention behind my creative process.

How have your experiences studying in China and the UK influenced your artistic style and the themes you explore in your work?

I was born and lived most of my conscious life in China, where I was immersed in a rich cultural heritage that spans thousands of years, which instilled in me a deep appreciation for traditional art forms such as calligraphy, ink painting, and ceramics. These influences are evident in my emphasis on fluid lines, intricate details, and reverence for nature in my artwork.
On the other hand, my time in the UK exposed me to encountered bold experimentation and innovative approaches to visual expression. This exposure encouraged me to push the boundaries of my own artistic practice, integrating elements of abstraction, surrealism, and conceptualism into my work.

Can you discuss how exploring ephemeral memories and hidden narratives informs your creative process? How do you translate these concepts into visual representations?

How do memories evolve over time? We recall an event from the past again and again, but never in the same way twice. Memories are experiences associated with the present, and as we recall them repeatedly, they change in response to our current circumstances. While the physical experience of time is singular, at the level of consciousness, time can be multiplied with each recollection. These actions produce different experiences of time parallel to the physical world. Through a series of recollective actions, I recreate these memories, which exponentially increase, and I use them as important data to inform both my current self and the world around me.
In Parallel time 2022, by layering each photograph with blurring and texture, I attempt to add a temporal dimension to the image. One way we perceive time is through decay, capturing the passage of time in a physical manner. The altered photographs are completely removed from their original appearance but retain a striking familiarity.

How do you balance the personal significance of your memories and experiences with creating artwork that resonates with a broader audience?

Balancing the personal significance of my memories and experiences with creating artwork that resonates with a broader audience is a delicate yet rewarding process. At the core of my artistic practice lies authenticity; I strive to create work that genuinely reflects my own lived experiences and emotions. However, I also recognize the importance of connecting with a broader audience, inviting them to relate to and find meaning in my art.
I often draw inspiration from universal themes and emotions that resonate with people from diverse backgrounds. While my artwork may be rooted in my personal memories and experiences, I aim to translate these into narratives or symbols that speak to broader human experiences such as love, loss, hope, and resilience.
Moreover, I pay careful attention to the visual language and techniques I employ. By using accessible mediums and aesthetic elements that appeal to a wide range of viewers, I can enhance the accessibility and relatability of my artwork. Additionally, I remain open to feedback and interpretation from others, allowing their perspectives to enrich and expand the meaning of my work.
By striking a balance between the personal and the universal, I aim to create art that not only reflects my own journey but also resonates with and enriches the lives of others.

Many of your works seem to focus on unnoticed or overlooked aspects of everyday life. What draws you to these subjects, and what do you hope viewers take away from encountering your art?

I'm drawn to these subjects because they reflect the richness and complexity of everyday life that often goes unnoticed. In our fast-paced world, it's easy to overlook the small moments, the subtle details, and the quiet beauty that surrounds us. Yet, within these seemingly ordinary moments lie profound insights, emotions, and stories waiting to be discovered.
I hope viewers take away a renewed sense of wonder and appreciation for the beauty and depth of everyday life. I want them to feel a connection to the shared human experience, to find resonance in the ordinary, and to be inspired to see the world with fresh eyes. I want to challenge perceptions of what is worthy of attention and appreciation, encouraging a deeper engagement with the world around us.

You have already exhibited your work in countries like China, Italy, and the UK. Have you noticed differences in how your work is received or interpreted based on cultural context? How does this influence your approach to exhibiting internationally? 

Exhibiting my work in different countries has indeed provided me with insights into how cultural context influences the reception and interpretation of my art. Each culture brings its own set of perspectives, values, and aesthetic preferences, which can shape how viewers engage with and understand my work.
For example, in China, where traditional arts hold significant cultural importance, viewers may approach my work with an appreciation for its connection to heritage and symbolism. In Italy, known for its rich artistic legacy, viewers may interpret my work through the lens of classical aesthetics and craftsmanship. In the UK, with its diverse and dynamic contemporary art scene, viewers may be more open to experimental and conceptual approaches.
These observations inform my approach to exhibiting internationally. I aim to adapt my presentation and messaging to resonate with the specific cultural context while maintaining the integrity and authenticity of my artistic vision. This might involve contextualizing my work through artist statements, discussions, or interactive elements that invite viewers to explore the cultural and conceptual layers embedded within it.
I see international exhibitions as opportunities for cross-cultural dialogue and exchange. I value the diverse perspectives and feedback I receive from viewers around the world, which enriches my understanding of how my work is perceived and valued across different cultural contexts. Ultimately, this ongoing dialogue informs and shapes my artistic practice, allowing it to evolve in response to the global community it engages with.

What upcoming projects or themes are you excited to explore in your future work? Are there any new mediums or techniques you're interested in experimenting with?

One area I'm particularly interested in is the concept of memory and its relationship to identity and place. I want to delve deeper into how our memories shape who we are and how they connect us to the environments we inhabit. This theme offers rich possibilities for storytelling and visual expression.

How do you envision the evolution of your artistic practice in the years to come? Are there any long-term goals or aspirations you hope to achieve?

My overarching aspiration is to continue growing as an artist, exploring new ideas, pushing the boundaries of my practice, and making meaningful connections with others through my art. With dedication, passion, and an open mind, I am excited to see where this creative journey takes me in the years ahead.

Lastly, what projects are you currently working on? Is there anything you would like to share with our readers?

I am currently involved in a few exciting projects that explore themes of memory, identity, and the environment. One major project is a multimedia installation that merges traditional painting with digital art. This installation focuses on fragmented memories and how they shape our sense of self and place. By layering images, sounds, and interactive elements, I aim to create an immersive experience that takes viewers on a journey through both personal and collective memories.
I'm also preparing for several upcoming exhibitions. I have a solo show planned in London and will be participating in a group exhibition in China. These events will feature my latest works and provide opportunities for viewers to engage with my art firsthand.

Artist’s Talk

Al-Tiba9 Interviews is a promotional platform for artists to articulate their vision and engage them with our diverse readership through a published art dialogue. The artists are interviewed by Mohamed Benhadj, the founder & curator of Al-Tiba9, to highlight their artistic careers and introduce them to the international contemporary art scene across our vast network of museums, galleries, art professionals, art dealers, collectors, and art lovers across the globe.