Email: ymaisieluo@gmail.com
Education
2024 Master of Fine Arts, Mason Gross School of Art, Rutgers University, NJ, USA
2022 Master of Theological Studies in Religion and Ethics, Harvard Divinity School, MA, USA
2019 BA in Honors Studio Art and Religion, Swarthmore College, PA, USA
Full CV upon request
Artist statement
My painting, installation, and painted animation examine evolving relationships between humans, animals, and the environment. My work often stems from my encounters with animals and plants in real life and dreams. I also research and incorporate images of animals, mythological stories, and symbols from Chinese papercutting and embroidery traditions, Tibetan Buddhism, and everyday public signs.
Images from Chinese papercutting and embroidery traditions represent local people’s reciprocal and respectful relationship with Earth, rather than treating it as a resource for humans. Engaging with these traditional art forms as living traditions, I create a conversation between the values they represent and the ones that drive the systems in which I live and rely on. For instance, in Chinese paper-cutting traditions, cattle symbolizes harmony and are seen as hardworking and soulful animals who are close to humans. When I paint cattle in US factory farm setting using a paper-cutting style, the medium itself asks questions about what our relationships with cattle are in the cities and embeds a wish for more harmony between humans and cattle. I also infuse visions of restoration, healing, and balance into my work. Symbols of protection, such as the conch and the parasol from Tibetan Buddhist art, are dedicated to my animal and plant subjects.
My art practice is influenced by Buddhist teachings about striving for the welfare of all living beings. Along with painting, I experiment with painted animation and public installation to invite a wider range of people to discuss climate change and animal welfare. My ultimate hope is that these visions and discussions will sow the seeds of multispecies flourishing.