Today we’d like to introduce you to Qinru Zhang.
Hi Qinru, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My name is Qinru Zhang, and I am a multimedia artist based in New York City. I utilize digital and fine arts to delve into themes of identity, femininity, and the uncanny. My body of work encompasses video art and installations, which serve as vehicles to convey unconventional narratives about women while embracing a distinctive aesthetic centered around the uncanny.
Can you talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
My artistic journey has been a mix of challenges and delightful surprises. On one hand, I relish the thrill of pushing my creative boundaries, constantly seeking new ways to express myself and expand my skills. On the other hand, I find comfort and solace in revisiting familiar techniques I’ve mastered over time. Yet, this dual approach comes with its share of difficulties. Selecting the perfect medium to bring my artistic visions to life can be a real challenge. The tension between innovation and the allure of the familiar has, at times, left me facing creative blocks and moments of indecision. Striking the right balance and navigating the realm of experimentation while preserving the unique essence of my art is a delicate task. Nevertheless, I embrace these struggles as they have been instrumental in my growth as an artist. My decisions and willingness to explore various artistic mediums continue to push me towards evolving and redefining my artistic identity.
Thanks for sharing that. So, you could tell us a bit more about your work.
My art is recognized for its unique juxtaposition, portraying a submissive form of femininity alongside a striking and unsettling uncanniness. In East Asian culture, traditional notions of femininity often emphasize traits such as compliance and gentleness, reinforcing the subjugation of women under patriarchal norms. To challenge and subvert these stereotypes, I deliberately employ characters associated with extreme femininity, including housewives and young girls, in my art. I use these characters to create a haunting and unforgettable experience for my audience. For instance, in my work “The MILF Film” (2021), a 3D animated film, I depict a housewife who forcefully feeds her husband an array of specially designed dishes. Through this act of a woman taking control and assertively providing for a man, the artwork draws attention to the importance of normalizing female desires and recognizing women’s significant contributions. This thought-provoking piece received the prestigious Gold Award at the 2022 NYX Awards in the Video/Web-Based Productions category.
Please talk to us about happiness and what makes you happy.
When my artwork strikes a chord with individuals from minority groups, it is a powerful catalyst for meaningful conversations and self-reflection within the broader cultural landscape. By challenging conventional norms linked to femininity, my art endeavors to empower those who may have previously felt marginalized or constrained by societal expectations. Through this resonance, the art encourages a reexamination of established norms and nurtures a sense of unity and shared experiences among historically underrepresented individuals. The acknowledgment of such artwork by diverse audiences underscores the significance of incorporating diverse perspectives in art and stimulates discussions on crucial topics like gender, power dynamics, and societal norms. This dialogue is essential for fostering greater understanding and progress in our society.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://qinruzhang.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/qinruzhang/
