10 Questions with Haiying Nie

Haiying Nie is a contemporary visual artist whose work delves into the intersection of photography, material manipulation, and artistic expression. Born and raised in China, Nie has always been deeply curious about the natural world and driven by a desire to challenge traditional visual narratives. This passion led her to pursue a Master’s degree in Anthropology, Art, and Perception at the University of St Andrews in Scotland, where her multidisciplinary education allowed her to seamlessly blend technical expertise with philosophical inquiry in her creative practice.

Nie’s art is characterized by an experimental approach that transcends the boundaries of traditional photography. She skillfully manipulates photographic materials through manual techniques and technical processes, transforming her images into new visual realities that are both striking and thought-provoking. Her use of light and color creates powerful visual effects and evokes strong emotional responses, pushing the viewer to reconsider conventional perceptions of visual art.

Her work often blurs the lines between photography and other art forms, creating a unique artistic space where traditional boundaries dissolve. This fusion not only reflects her deep exploration of the relationships between art, perception, and the material world but also elevates her work beyond the confines of traditional photography, making it a transformative experience for the viewer.

Throughout her career, Nie has consistently demonstrated a remarkable ability to combine technical precision with artistic innovation. She meticulously manipulates photographic emulsion layers, introducing texture and dimensionality to her work. This method results in visually complex and emotionally resonant pieces that offer fresh perspectives on familiar subjects.

Now based in Scotland, Nie continues to explore the impact of human activities on the natural world, with a particular focus on marine ecosystems. Her recent work addresses pressing issues such as pollution and climate change, using her distinctive techniques to highlight both the beauty and vulnerability of these environments. Her art serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance within nature and the urgent need for its preservation.

In addition to her individual practice, Nie actively engages in collaborative projects that merge art with environmental advocacy. She partners with organizations to raise awareness of critical environmental issues, such as ocean pollution, using her art to communicate the urgency of these challenges. These collaborations reflect her belief in the power of art to inspire change and her commitment to using her platform to advocate for the protection of the natural world.

Haiying Nie remains dedicated to exploring new ways of integrating photography with other media, continually creating work that is both visually compelling and intellectually engaging. Her art demonstrates the potential of photography as a dynamic and transformative medium, capable of addressing some of the most pressing issues of our time. Through her work, Nie hopes to inspire a deeper appreciation for the beauty and fragility of the natural world and to encourage collective responsibility for its preservation.

www.haiyingnie.com | @haiying_nie

Distorted Ocean | Project Description

In the series Distorted Ocean, my work explores the intricate relationship between nature and human intervention through the lens of photography, blending documentation with transformation. Initially, I capture the vibrant beauty of marine life, but these images undergo meticulous distortion through the manipulation of emulsion layers. This technique departs from traditional photographic flatness, adding a sense of dimensionality and material presence to the work. It also mirrors the fragile state of natural ecosystems, particularly those endangered by human activities.

The crumpled and fractured surfaces in these images are not mere aesthetic choices but deliberate disruptions that symbolize environmental degradation. Once-clear photographs of underwater worlds—such as sea anemones, jellyfish, and coral reefs—are transformed into abstract, almost alien landscapes. These distortions represent the struggle of nature to maintain balance amidst pollution, climate change, and other human-induced threats. They serve as metaphors for the environmental challenges these ecosystems face, prompting viewers to reflect on the impact of human activity on the natural world.

Light and color play crucial roles in Distorted Ocean, acting as emotional triggers that shape the viewer’s experience. By manipulating these elements, I aim to evoke both the inherent beauty and the underlying vulnerability of these natural environments. The distortions within the emulsion create a sense of tension, encouraging viewers not only to observe but to feel the impact of the changes occurring in the natural world.

My goal is to challenge perceptions of reality and initiate a dialogue about the consequences of human actions on the environment. Through the physicality of the medium and the tactile quality of the manipulated surfaces, I seek to engage viewers on a deeper, more sensory level, encouraging reflection on the fragility of the depicted ecosystems.

Distorted Ocean explores the intersection of art, nature, and human impact, serving as a visual metaphor for the delicate balance within our ecosystems and a reminder of the urgent need for preservation. Through this work, I hope to raise awareness and provoke thought about the importance of safeguarding the natural world for future generations.

Ocean's Bloom, Visual Art, 1920x1357 px, 2024 © Haiying Nie

INTERVIEW

Since our last interview, what new projects or themes have you explored in your work?

Since our last interview, I have embarked on a new project titled "Distorted Ocean," which delves into the intricate relationship between nature and human intervention. In this series, I explore marine ecosystems' beauty and vulnerability by blending documentation with transformation. Starting with photographs that capture the vibrant life of underwater worlds—such as sea anemones, jellyfish, and coral reefs—I then manipulate these images by distorting the emulsion layers. This technique adds dimensionality and a tactile quality to the work, moving beyond traditional flatness to mirror the fragility of natural ecosystems under human threat.
The crumpled and fractured surfaces in these images are intentional disruptions that symbolize environmental degradation. The transformation of once-clear photographs into abstract, almost alien landscapes serves as a metaphor for the struggle of nature to maintain balance amidst human-induced threats like pollution and climate change. Through "Distorted Ocean," I aim to challenge perceptions of reality, provoke thought about the consequences of our actions, and highlight the urgent need for environmental preservation. The project represents a continued exploration of themes related to the intersection of art, nature, and human impact, encouraging viewers to reflect deeply on the fragility and beauty of our planet's ecosystems.

Can you share any insights or experiences that have influenced your recent artistic direction?

In my recent work, I have been deeply influenced by artists Dafna Talmor and Matthew Brandt, whose approaches have driven me to further explore the materiality and experimental potential of photography. Dafna Talmor's work, which involves cutting and reconstructing negatives, transforms traditional photography into an abstract, multi-dimensional visual experience. Her techniques inspired me to manipulate the emulsion layers in my "Distorted Ocean" series to create works with a stronger sense of materiality and depth. This physical intervention in the image allows me to more profoundly convey themes of environmental damage and ecological fragility.
Simultaneously, Matthew Brandt's experimental photography has also significantly impacted my artistic direction. His bold approach of combining chemicals with photography, such as soaking photographs in substances related to the subject matter, reflects the material properties and transformations of the natural world. This method, which directly links the photographic process to natural processes, made me realize that manipulating emulsion layers and other materials can be a more direct way to represent the state of marine ecosystems and the human interference they endure.
By learning from their practices, I have begun to view photography as a more dynamic and interactive art form, rather than merely a tool for documenting reality. I hope my work, like Talmor's and Brandt's, challenges conventional perceptions and evokes deeper thought and emotional resonance about environmental conservation. Thus, their creative philosophies and technical approaches have become essential sources of inspiration in my artistic practice, driving me to continually explore new visual languages and modes of expression in the "Distorted Ocean" series.

Your series "Distorted Ocean" is deeply rooted in environmental themes. How did you get interested in such themes, and how has your understanding of these issues evolved over time?

My interest in environmental themes, particularly those concerning the ocean, began with a fascination for the delicate beauty and complexity of marine ecosystems. Growing up near the coast, I was always drawn to the vibrant colors and diverse life forms that inhabit the underwater world. However, as I delved deeper into studying these ecosystems, I became increasingly aware of their vulnerability and the myriad threats they face due to human activities—pollution, overfishing, climate change, and habitat destruction.
Over time, my understanding of these issues evolved from a general awareness to a more profound recognition of the interconnectedness between human actions and environmental consequences. I realized that the damage we inflict on the ocean is not just a distant problem but a reflection of our broader relationship with the natural world. This understanding compelled me to use my art to bridge the gap between awareness and empathy, transforming abstract concepts into tangible, emotional experiences for viewers.

Glowing Jellyfish, Visual Art, 1920x1357 px, 2024 © Haiying Nie

Aquatic Dreams, Visual Art, 1920x1357 px, 2024 © Haiying Nie

You use a unique technique of manipulating emulsion layers in your photography. How did you come up with this idea? And how did you develop this style?

The idea of manipulating the emulsion layers in my photography originated from a desire to push beyond the boundaries of traditional photographic representation and to engage physically with the medium itself. I wanted to create images that not only document reality but also convey deeper narratives about the fragility and complexity of the natural world, particularly marine ecosystems. In my artistic exploration, working directly with the material aspects of photography—its surfaces, textures, and layers—felt like a natural progression.
I was inspired by Dafna Talmor's technique of cutting and reconstructing negatives, as well as Matthew Brandt's use of chemical and material interventions, which sparked my curiosity about how I might similarly transform my images. I began experimenting with manipulating the emulsion layers of my photographs, realizing that these physical distortions could reflect the damage caused to the environment by human actions.
Developing this style was a process of constant experimentation and trial and error. I explored using different materials—such as ceramics, watercolor paper, and glass—to create textures and fractures within the emulsion layers. This hands-on experimentation allowed me to discover new ways to manipulate the medium and push the boundaries of traditional photography, finding the right balance between control and unpredictability in the final images.
Over time, this technique evolved into a distinct style, where the physical interventions became a metaphor for environmental degradation. The crumpled, fractured surfaces of the photographs visually symbolize the damaged and fragile state of the ecosystems they depict. This method has allowed me to add a tactile quality to my work, challenging viewers to engage with the images on both a visual and emotional level, prompting them to consider the impacts of human intervention on the natural world.

Your work often blurs the lines between photography and other art forms. What challenges or breakthroughs have you encountered in this interdisciplinary approach?

Combining photography with other art forms has brought both challenges and breakthroughs. One of the biggest challenges has been balancing the precision of photography with the unpredictability of materials like ceramics, watercolor paper, and glass. Working with these different mediums often led to unexpected reactions and outcomes, requiring me to embrace uncertainty and adapt my process.
However, this interdisciplinary approach has also opened new creative possibilities, allowing me to add depth and texture to my work in ways that traditional photography could not achieve. It has expanded my artistic vocabulary, enabling me to convey complex themes, such as environmental fragility, in more engaging and dynamic ways. Ultimately, this approach has deepened my understanding of how different materials can interact to tell more powerful visual stories.

Clownfish, Visual Art, 1920x2716 px, 2024 © Haiying Nie

Light and color are central to your work. How have you experimented with these elements in your most recent pieces?

The interplay of light and color is fundamental to my work, serving as a powerful means to evoke emotions and challenge the viewer's perceptions. I approach these elements with a deliberate intention to guide the viewer's emotional experience, using them to enhance the themes of fragility, beauty, and environmental degradation that run throughout my pieces.
Light is crucial for creating mood and depth within the work. I often experiment with dramatic lighting contrasts to accentuate the fractures and distortions in the emulsion layers, which represent the disrupted equilibrium within natural ecosystems. By using harsh, direct light, I can create a sense of tension and discomfort, while softer, diffused light conveys tranquility or a sense of fading memory. This manipulation of light is aimed at drawing the viewer into the complexities of the natural world and allowing them to feel the urgency of the environmental changes my work reflects.
Color functions as a key emotional trigger in my compositions, enhancing the visual narrative and deepening the impact of the images. I use bright, saturated colors to capture the initial allure and vibrancy of marine life, contrasted with muted or distorted hues that suggest decay or imbalance. This deliberate use of color highlights the inherent beauty of these ecosystems while simultaneously serving as a metaphor for their vulnerability, prompting viewers to look beyond the surface and consider the consequences of human actions. Through the careful interplay of light and color, I seek to create an immersive experience that not only captivates the viewer but also fosters a more profound emotional connection with the natural world.

Collaboration seems to play a significant role in your practice. Could you tell us more about it? Are there any recent partnerships or projects that have stood out to you?

Collaboration is important in my practice, allowing me to explore new perspectives and deepen my engagement with environmental themes. I often draw on the work of marine biologists and environmental scientists, using their research and insights to better understand the specific threats facing marine ecosystems. This grounding in scientific knowledge brings a layer of authenticity and urgency to my artistic interpretations.
I have also collaborated with artists from various mediums, such as glassmakers, ceramicists, and sculptors, which has encouraged me to experiment with new textures, forms, and three-dimensional elements. These creative partnerships have inspired me to expand beyond traditional photography, integrating diverse materials that capture the complexity and richness of the natural world. These experiences have enriched my practice, challenging me to approach my work with greater depth and creativity.

Celestial Jellyfish, Visual Art, 1920x1357 px, 2024 © Haiying Nie

How do you see your role as an artist in the context of environmental advocacy? Do you believe art can be a meaningful tool to raise awareness on themes such as environmental issues and climate change?

As an artist, I see my role in environmental advocacy as both a communicator and a bridge-builder. Art has the power todistill complex, often overwhelming topics—like climate change or biodiversity loss—into experiences that are more visceral and accessible. Unlike scientific data or policy discussions, which can feel distant or abstract to many people, art can reach them on an emotional level, fostering empathy and personal connection. I believe this emotional engagement is crucial in motivating individuals to care deeply about environmental issues and, ultimately, to take action.
Moreover, I see my art as a platform for dialogue and connection. I believe that, as artists, we have a responsibility to use our voices to bring attention to critical issues, and I view my work as a starting point for conversations that might not otherwise happen. Art can serve as a meeting ground where different perspectives—scientific, cultural, and political—can come together to explore new ways of understanding and solving problems.
Art alone may not change the world, but it can change how people see the world. It can plant a seed, spark curiosity, and encourage a shift in mindset that makes larger-scale action possible. In this way, I see art as a meaningful and essential tool in the broader effort to address environmental issues and climate change. It's about using creativity to make the invisible visible, to transform apathy into empathy, and to help build a more sustainable and conscious future.

Looking ahead, do you plan to keep working on environmental themes, or is there any other subject or theme you would like to explore?

I intend to continue focusing on environmental themes, as they remain central to my artistic practice and personal convictions. The urgency of our environmental crisis drives me to keep exploring the fragility and resilience of nature, using my work to provoke thought and inspire action.
That said, I'm also open to exploring other subjects that intersect with environmental concerns. I'm particularly interested in examining themes like human impact on biodiversity, the psychological effects of climate change, and the interplay between nature and urban spaces. I'm curious about how these interconnected topics can deepen the dialogue on environmental issues while broadening the scope of my work.
Ultimately, while the environment will remain a core theme, I look forward to finding new ways to approach it and possibly integrating other subjects that resonate with my vision for a more thoughtful and engaged world.

Dancing Jellyfish, Visual Art, 1920x2716 px, 2024 © Haiying Nie

And lastly, where do you see yourself in five years from now?

In five years, I see myself continuing to grow both artistically and professionally, expanding my practice to include more diverse mediums and collaborative projects. I hope to engage in meaningful dialogues with other artists, scientists, and communities, creating work that not only resonates aesthetically but also contributes to a broader understanding of the urgent issues we face, particularly around environmental sustainability.
I aspire to take my work to new places—literally and figuratively—by participating in more international residencies and exhibitions that challenge me to think differently and push my creative boundaries. I also aim to develop educational programs or initiatives that use art to raise awareness and inspire younger generations about environmental stewardship.
Ultimately, I see myself not just as an artist but as an active participant in a global movement towards a more conscious and responsible relationship with our planet. I hope my work can serve as both a reflection of our times and a hopeful vision for a more sustainable future.

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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