Artist Statement
My drawings serve as a medium for preserving the faded memories of the past and the vibrant moments of the present. As an immigrant, the familiar landscape of my hometown has gradually blurred in my memory over time, losing its once vivid presence. For me, it is important to not only enjoy the present but also reflect on the past. My main sources of inspiration are my childhood memories of living in Taiwan, as well as traditional Taiwanese culture and places, such as the Mid-Autumn Festival, Chinese New Year, or a quaint traditional breakfast store. They are a part of me, and I am dedicated to preserving them with my paintbrushes.
My primary material is watercolor. I utilize textures, color expression, and viewing angles to deliver a moment that evokes nostalgia and special childhood memories. I enjoy the process of blending paints with water; the qualities of watercolor gradually bring my blurry memorable memories back to life. Sometimes, I incorporate shredded paper in my pieces. The discarded paper passes through the shredder, turning into tiny scraps, much like how my childhood memories slowly fragment as the cultural shift. The process of cutting scraps of paper helps me gradually piece together fragmented memories in my mind. I use watercolor to layer the colors of my memories onto the scraps. The gentle visuals of the watercolor combined with the texture of the shredded paper allow me to better express the atmosphere of old memories. Though they are fragments, to me, they represent a complete transformation and recreation of my memories.
Growing up in Taiwan, my interactions with cats were an important part of my daily life. These playful, curious companions were always around me, weaving themselves into my childhood memories. Whether lounging in sunny courtyards or exploring narrow alleyways, their presence became tied to my nostalgic reflections. This bond with cats continues to inspire my work, as I transform them into humorous, expressive characters that reflect my emotions and experiences. Each cat serves as a trace of the feelings I've carried through my memories, allowing me to preserve those moments while creating art that is inclusive, optimistic, and brings joy to those who experience it.