
JIAYI ZHU
Artist's statement
I am fascinated by the subtle and complex ways through which everything is interconnected. My primary focus is to explore and represent the diverse relationships that exist in the world. Through various media—such as installation, performance, and photography—I attempt to capture and convey these intricate interconnections. Currently, my work centers on intimate relationships, particularly on how these connections create emotional bonds that shape people’s lives.
Each person's identity is uniquely shaped by their relationships; all interactions leave traces in our bodily memory and habitual behaviors, playing a crucial role in forming our personality and perspectives.My current practice explores the role of physical touch, particularly hugs, in fostering emotional connections within interpersonal relationships. Inspired by personal experiences and a lack of physical closeness with my mother, I launched a social experiment to examine how a single hug might build a bond between two strangers. This project invites viewers to reflect on how we can cultivate healthier, more meaningful connections.
I aim to give tangible form to emotionally charged, abstract concepts. Through symbolic actions, I seek to capture the nuances of these unique relationships, exposing the complexities, boundaries, and vulnerabilities inherent in human interaction. My work is a reflection of both the world and myself. By weaving personal experiences with universal themes, I investigate the intrinsic connections among individuals, striving for a deeper understanding of emotional exchange and cultural integration.