In my art, I explore the pivotal role of relationships in shaping individual and societal identity. My focus lies in the intricate dynamics within families, friendships, and school interactions, especially their influence during our formative years. These relationships, alongside the prevailing social ideologies and zeitgeist, collectively mold our identities—blending the stable core of our innate humanity with the complexity of external forces.
This duality of internal and external influences is captured through a nuanced palette and varied textures. I depict family and friend relationships through subtle facial expressions and body language in the artwork, while social influences are subtly woven through the background elements—such as the decor, clothing, and foods. These details offer a deeper insight into the societal context surrounding the subjects.
My process oscillates between the clarity of vibrant colors and the ambiguity of detailed strokes, illuminating my subjects' emotional landscapes and inviting viewers to engage with these complex emotional states. My work spans a spectrum of emotions, always carrying a thread of nostalgia for the fleeting passage of time, and highlighting the resilience of the human spirit through my color choices.
In each portrait, I strive to capture the authenticity and diversity of individuality, presenting more than mere reflections—these are insights into the nuanced interplay between individuals, families, and society —each canvas a portal to our collective past and present, inviting viewers to engage with the narrative of humanity that I continue to weave.
Shiyu Cheng (b. 1988, China) seamlessly blends analytical prowess and artistic sensitivity in her unique journey from finance to art. Holding a BBA in Finance and Economics from the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology and an MBA from University of California, Berkeley, Cheng transitioned from a career in auditing and tech to pursue her enduring passion for the arts, inspired by her father's photography and the rich cultural backdrop of China. Her work, characterized by dynamic hues and fluid forms, captures the dance of intellect and instinct, tangible realities and abstract notions. Her art, reflecting a fusion of her analytical mind and artistic soul, has earned acclaim, notably with her recent feature in the De Young Open 2023 at the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco, exemplifying her journey from the structured world of finance to the boundless realm of visual art.
In the hands of Shiyu Cheng, paintings become portals - not only accessing and reflecting our past but also providing insights into the ongoing dynamics of human nature. It is in this way that her work becomes a resonant narrative of the human condition, inviting us to engage in its intricate discourse.
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