10 Questions with Shuwan Chen

Shuwan (b.1994) is a visual artist who lives and works in New York City. She is the co-founder of the :iidrr Gallery, located in New York. Shuwan received a BA in Sociology from the Australian National University (2016) and an MFA from the School of Visual Arts (2022). Her work explores the bridge between physical and digital spaces, objects, and experiences. She uses digital data from an archive of glitched images to make new photographs and sculptures with modeling software and machine learning to explore the vision of the future. She discovers new possibilities for what a glitch can generate, such as digital and physical objects, as well as the relationship between fragility and stability, machine-made and handmade, traditional photography making, and alternative processes in a metabolic way.

shuwan.site | @shuwan

INTERVIEW

First, introduce yourself to our readers. Who is Shuwan Chen in three words?

Visual Artist, Entrepreneur, Innovator.

What is your artistic background? And how did you develop into the artist you are today?

My artistic path began at The Australian National University, where I studied Sociology. This experience, while not directly related to the arts, subtly informed my understanding of societal narratives, which later influenced my artistic expression. Afterward, I transitioned to a more focused pursuit of visual arts at the London College of Communication in 2017, studying PR, Marketing, and Photography. This was where my commitment to visual arts truly solidified. The shift from Sociology to visual arts has been a journey of merging analytical insights with creative expression. My time at The Australian National University laid the groundwork for a deeper exploration of themes in my art, especially in understanding the complexities of human interactions and societal structures. My role at :iidrr Gallery and my continued exploration of digital and physical mediums in art are a testament to this blend of academic background and artistic pursuit. This unique combination drives my work, allowing me to explore and push the boundaries of traditional art forms.

Seeds 01, Archival pigment print, 12x12 in, 2021 © Shuwan Chen

You studied Sociology; how does it influence your work as an artist? And what other experiences or training shaped you as an artist?

My background in Sociology from The Australian National University plays a crucial role in my work as an artist. The study of sociology provided me with a deep understanding of the construction of the world around us - how societies function, how cultural dynamics shape behaviors, and how individuals interact within these frameworks. This understanding of social structures and human relationships has greatly influenced the themes and narratives in my art, enabling me to create works that are not only visually striking but also rich in social commentary.
Fieldwork and data gathering, integral aspects of sociological study, have been particularly influential in my artistic development. Participating in field trips as part of my sociology studies allowed me to immerse myself in diverse environments and communities. These experiences enriched my perspective, giving me first-hand exposure to various societal dynamics and human interactions. This direct engagement with different social settings has informed my artwork, allowing me to depict more authentic and varied human experiences.
Moreover, the practice of collecting and analyzing data in sociology taught me the importance of grounding my work in empirical evidence. In my art, I often draw upon data and research findings to inform the themes and subjects I explore. This approach ensures that the social issues and concepts presented in my art are not only based on personal observations but are also backed by solid research. Consequently, the conclusions and messages conveyed through my art are more convincing and relatable to the audience.
My academic training in sociology, coupled with practical experiences like fieldwork and data analysis, has been instrumental in shaping my approach to art. These experiences have provided me with a unique lens through which to view the world and have enabled me to create art that is a thoughtful fusion of aesthetic appeal and sociological insight.
In addition to my academic background in Sociology, several other experiences and forms of training have been pivotal in shaping my journey as an artist.
Firstly, my education in visual arts at the London College of Communication was fundamental. Here, I specialized in Photography, PR, and Marketing. This education not only honed my technical photography skills but also deepened my understanding of visual storytelling and communication. The exposure to diverse artistic styles and mediums during my time in London played a crucial role in refining my artistic sensibilities and encouraging me to experiment with various forms of expression.
Furthermore, my role as the lead at :iidrr Gallery has been a significant aspect of my professional development. Managing a gallery has provided me with a unique perspective on the art world, from curation and collaboration to understanding the nuances of art exhibitions. It has allowed me to engage with a wide array of artists and art forms, broadening my artistic horizons and providing inspiration for my work.
Practical experiences, such as participating in various exhibitions, have also been instrumental. These platforms have offered me opportunities to showcase my work, receive feedback, and engage with the art community. Exhibitions like "3×3: Reflections on Memory" and my series "Untitled," which was recognized in the International Photography Awards, have been crucial in establishing my voice and presence in the contemporary art scene.

Studio 01, Archival pigment print, 12x12 in, 2021 © Shuwan Chen

On a different note, you also co-founded :iidrr Gallery in New York. How did this project develop? And what did you learn as an artist from it?

The inception of :iidrr Gallery in New York was a natural progression of my journey as an artist and entrepreneur. The idea was born from a desire to create a space that not only showcased innovative art but also served as a nexus for artists who explored the convergence of digital and physical mediums. Our vision was to establish a platform where creative boundaries could be pushed, and new narratives in contemporary art could be explored.
Developing :iidrr Gallery was both challenging and enlightening. It required a blend of artistic vision, business acumen, and a deep understanding of the contemporary art scene. One of the key lessons I learned through this process was the importance of collaboration and community. Building a successful gallery is not just about curating great art; it's about creating a vibrant ecosystem where artists, collectors, and art enthusiasts can engage and exchange ideas.
As an artist, being involved in :iidrr Gallery has offered me invaluable insights. It has exposed me to a diverse range of artistic expressions and practices, which has broadened my perspective and influenced my own work. Managing the gallery has also honed my skills in curation and given me a deeper appreciation for the nuances involved in presenting art to the public. It's a continual learning experience that enriches my understanding of art in its many forms and its impact on society.
Overall, co-founding and developing :iidrr Gallery has been a significant milestone in my career, providing me with a unique platform to merge my artistic and entrepreneurial interests and contribute meaningfully to the art and tech community.

Speaking of your work, where do you get your inspiration from?

My inspiration comes from a myriad of sources, each playing a vital role in shaping my artistic vision. A significant part of my inspiration stems from my time at the School of Visual Arts (SVA) in New York. There, I had the privilege of learning from professors who deeply influenced my approach to art. Penelope Umbrico's innovative use of photographic imagery, Eileen Quinlan's exploration of photographic materials and processes, and Lucas Blalock's unique approach to digital photography all offered fresh perspectives and opened up new possibilities in my work.
Moreover, the guidance and wisdom of Charles Traub, the head of our department, were instrumental in refining my artistic practice. His insights into the art of photography and its evolving role in contemporary culture were particularly enlightening. Aside from my academic experiences, my inspiration also comes from everyday life, the ever-changing dynamics of the digital age, and the intricate patterns of human interactions within urban landscapes. The fusion of these diverse influences allows me to create art that is not only visually compelling but also rich in conceptual depth.
Furthermore, the inspiration I draw from my peers at :iidrr Gallery and in the broader art community cannot be overstated. Engaging with fellow artists, exchanging ideas, and witnessing their creative processes and innovations provide a constant source of inspiration and motivation, driving me to explore new concepts and techniques in my own work.
Additionally, my role at :iidrr Gallery exposes me to a wide array of artistic styles and mediums, constantly fueling my creativity and pushing me to explore new boundaries in my work. Each artist I encounter and each piece I curate adds to my reservoir of inspiration, continually shaping and evolving my artistic journey.

You primarily work with images and, as you mention in your statement, you explore "the bridge between physical and digital spaces." What do you see at this intersection? And how do you use these two different realms in your work?

At the intersection of physical and digital spaces, I see a realm of limitless possibilities and a convergence of realities. This intersection fascinates me because it represents a fusion of the tangible and the intangible, the real and the virtual. In this space, the physicality of traditional art forms meets the fluidity and expansiveness of the digital world, creating a unique platform for artistic expression.
In my work, I use this intersection to challenge traditional notions of art and explore new forms of visual storytelling. By starting with digital glitches – often considered errors or imperfections – I transform them into the central theme of my art. These glitches serve as metaphors for the unexpected and the unstructured, bridging the gap between the digital and the physical. I often take these digital images and bring them into the physical world through various mediums, such as 3D printing or traditional photography methods, like silver gelatin printing. This process not only gives a tangible form to digital errors but also adds a layer of depth and texture that is unique to physical artworks.
The blending of these realms allows me to explore themes like the chaos and order of urban life, the contrast between handcrafted artistry and mass production, and the changing perceptions of memory and reality in the digital age. By navigating these two realms, my work aims to provoke thought and conversation about our increasingly digitized world and its impact on art, society, and our collective consciousness.

Glitches 01, Archival Print, 36x48 in, 2018 © Shuwan Chen

The glitch is another focus of your work, a theme that has recently been largely investigated by artists. Can you tell us more about your interpretation of this theme? And how is it reflected in your work?

The glitch, as a central theme in my work, represents more than just a digital error; it's a metaphor for the unexpected and often overlooked aspects of life. My interpretation of the glitch goes beyond its aesthetic appeal; I see it as a symbol of the imperfections that are inherent in both the digital and physical worlds. In the realm of digital art, glitches are often seen as mistakes or malfunctions, but I choose to embrace them as a form of artistic expression, a way to challenge the norms of perfection and uniformity.
In my work, glitches are not just random occurrences; they are carefully selected and manipulated to create a dialogue between the flawed and the flawless, the chaotic and the orderly. By integrating these glitches into my art, I aim to explore the beauty and complexity of imperfection. This approach allows me to delve into themes such as the fragility of digital data, the transient nature of memory, and the ever-blurring line between reality and virtuality.
Each piece I create using glitches is a reflection of my belief that there is beauty in imperfection and chaos. It's an attempt to capture the essence of our digital age – a world where errors can become art, and where the lines between the physical and digital are constantly being redefined. Through my exploration of glitches, I hope to offer a new perspective on how we perceive and interact with digital media, and to encourage viewers to find beauty in the unexpected.

On a general level, which themes would you like to investigate? And what messages would you like to convey to the public?

On a broader scale, I am drawn to themes that resonate with our contemporary existence, particularly in the context of our rapidly evolving digital age. I am fascinated by the exploration of memory in the digital era – how it is preserved, altered, and experienced through the lens of technology. The concept of memory, especially as it becomes increasingly digitalized, raises questions about authenticity, permanence, and the subjective nature of recollecting.
Another theme I am passionate about is the interplay between the urban environment and individual experience. I am interested in how urbanization shapes our perceptions, interactions, and the rhythm of our daily lives. Through my art, I aim to delve into the complexities of living in modern cities, exploring the contrasts between solitude and connectivity, chaos and order.
In terms of the messages I wish to convey, I aim to encourage the audience to pause and reflect on their relationship with technology, society, and the environment. My goal is to inspire viewers to see the beauty in the imperfections of our world, to appreciate the nuances of human experience, and to consider the profound impact of their actions on both the digital and physical realms. Ultimately, I hope my art catalyzes introspection and conversation about the world we live in and the future we are creating.

Glitches 02, Archival Print, 36x48 in, 2018 © Shuwan Chen

As both an artist and gallerist, what do you think of the art market? How did you find your place in there?

As both an artist and a gallerist, my view of the art market is that it's a place filled with both opportunities and challenges. It's a platform where creativity intersects with commerce and where the value of art often intertwines with market demands.
My dual roles have given me a deep understanding of the importance of maintaining authenticity and uniqueness in my artwork, even under market pressures. As a gallery owner, I've learned to balance the artistic with the commercial, encompassing everything from curating exhibitions to attracting audiences and selling artworks.
Finding my place in the art market has been a journey of continuous exploration and practical experience. Through participating in various exhibitions and art residency programs, I gradually established my artistic style and market presence. At :iidrr Gallery, we're committed to showcasing innovative art that merges digital and physical elements, which has helped us carve out a unique niche in the market.
Overall, I aim to bring fresh perspectives and vitality to the art market through my artistic practice and gallery operations, while also providing a supportive platform for emerging artists to grow and develop.

Lastly, what are you working on now? And what are your plans for the upcoming new year?

Currently, I am working on a series that further explores the intersection of digital and physical art forms. This project is a deep dive into how digital technologies, especially AI, are reshaping our perception of art and reality. The series is an amalgamation of photography, digital manipulation, and traditional art techniques, aiming to create a visual narrative that challenges and engages the audience.
Looking ahead to the new year, my plans include expanding :iidrr Gallery's reach and influence. We're planning to curate a series of exhibitions that focus on emerging technologies in art, providing a platform for artists who are pushing the boundaries of digital and physical mediums. I also plan to continue my collaboration with other artists, both locally and internationally, to foster a broader exchange of ideas and practices.
Personally, I am keen on further developing my artistic skills, especially in areas that intersect with new media and technology. I intend to engage more with interactive installations and virtual reality, exploring how these mediums can enhance the art experience for viewers. Additionally, I aim to involve myself in more community-based art projects that not only reflect social themes but also encourage public participation and discourse.
Overall, the upcoming year is poised to be a period of growth, collaboration, and exploration, both for me personally and for :iidrr Gallery. We're excited about the possibilities that lie ahead and are committed to making a significant impact in the world of contemporary art.

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.

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