Interview
Yunqian Lin
Yunqian (Q) Lin, born in 1989 in Guangxi, China, currently resides and works in New York. In 2019, she earned her MFA from The Savannah College of Art and Design. Lin’s artistic pursuits involve a deep exploration of temporal fluctuations. Her inclination towards landscapes and the Earth’s innate characteristics is similarly driven by a fascination with the interplay between control and spontaneity, particularly within the dynamic between human engagement and the natural world.
Her artistic expression finds its genesis in photography, which she uses as a foundation to explore diverse mediums, including video works and installations, utilizing these mediums to accentuate her fascination with nature and the cyclical patterns of destruction and regeneration. Lin’s work has been recognized as Juror Selection by the New York Center for Photographic Art. Additionally, her inventive work has been prominently featured in various media.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“I hail from Guangxi, China, and currently live and work in New York. I hold an MFA from the Savannah College of Art and Design. My profound passion for art stems from an enduring love for photography, which, from my earliest memories, has been a way to capture and preserve the ephemeral moments of my life. My artistic endeavors delve into the nuances of time's passage. My fascination with landscapes and the inherent traits of the Earth arises from an interest in the balance between control and spontaneity, especially in the interaction between human activity and the natural environment.”
What inspires you?
“The genesis of this series was the tumultuous aftermath of the hurricanes in 2017. Venturing back to the trails I once frequented, I was met with the unsettling sight of fallen trees and submerged paths - a vivid testament to nature's capricious power and its capacity for transformation. As time passed, the emergence of new life amidst the devastation underscored nature's inherent creativity and the pivotal role of time. In my compelling "Entropy" series, I employ photography as a tool to curate a visual compendium inspired by the natural realm. Playing the role of a co-creator, I find the ever-changing tapestry of the world around me intertwines elements of chance, morphing unpredictability into a canvas of artistic expression.”
What themes do you pursue? Is there an underlying message in your work?
“My work primarily explores themes of transience, regeneration, and the intricate dance between order and chaos. This thematic exploration is rooted in an appreciation for the ephemeral beauty of the natural world and the human experience within it. The underlying message in my art seeks to highlight the resilience inherent in nature and the human spirit, reflecting on how destruction often precedes renewal and growth. By delving into the juxtaposition of decay and rebirth, my creations invite viewers to ponder the cyclic nature of life and the interconnectedness of all things. Through the lens of my "Entropy" series, for example, I aim to encapsulate the idea that within every ending lies the potential for a new beginning. This concept is further enriched by a consideration of time's relentless passage, underscoring the notion that moments of chaos and order are but fleeting snapshots in the grand continuum of existence. In essence, my work serves as a meditation on the beauty found in impermanence and the transformative power of time, urging a deeper contemplation of our place within the natural world and the legacy we leave behind.”
How would you describe your work?
“To me, photography transcends the simple act of documenting reality in motion; it becomes a conduit for probing into the essence of existence itself. It serves as an instrument for reflecting on the fundamental aspects of reality, encouraging both exploration and introspection. My steadfast conviction in the unique interplay between photographic materials, light, and subject matter drives my innovative approach to capturing ephemeral moments authentically.”
Which artists influence you most?
“Meghann Riepenhoff's work has profoundly influenced my artistic journey, particularly her innovative approach to creating cyanotypes that interact with natural elements. Her method of allowing nature to directly imprint upon photographic materials resonates with my own desire to capture the fleeting and often unpredictable aspects of the natural world. Riepenhoff’s engagement with the environment, where she exposes her photographic papers to elements like water, earth, and wind, has inspired me to embrace a more organic and collaborative process with nature in my own work. Her exploration of themes like impermanence, the passage of time, and the dynamic relationship between humans and the natural environment has encouraged me to delve deeper into these concepts within my photography. Riepenhoff's ability to capture the ephemeral beauty of nature’s processes has pushed me to experiment with my techniques, materials, and the conditions under which I create my art. By integrating some of her philosophies and methodologies into my practice, I've found a new layer of meaning and connection in my work. The influence of Riepenhoff’s embrace of nature’s unpredictability and her celebration of the serendipitous outcomes it can produce has led me to value the spontaneous and uncontrollable aspects of my creative process, viewing them not as challenges but as opportunities for authentic expression and discovery.”
“My work primarily explores themes of transience, regeneration, and the intricate dance between order and chaos.”
What is your creative process like?
“This concept is closely intertwined with my creative process. Photography initially served as my primary mode of expression, from which I subsequently drew inspiration to delve into a diverse array of mediums, such as video and installation art. I aim to convey my interpretation of the natural life cycle through these mediums. In my work, photography has transcended its original boundaries and evolved into an additional conduit for artistic expression.”
What is an artist’s role in society and how do you see that evolving?
“The role of an artist in society, traditionally centered around reflection, critique, and inspiration, is evolving with technological and societal shifts. Today's artists have the potential to reach wider audiences, advocate for environmental sustainability, and merge art with technology, thereby broadening their impact. Additionally, as awareness of mental health grows, art's therapeutic value is increasingly recognized, underscoring its importance in fostering well-being. In this dynamic landscape, artists are poised to play a pivotal role in promoting empathy, innovation, and unity, reflecting and shaping our world.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“My recent exhibitions in 2023 include: “Beyond Borders”, The Scholart Selection, San Gabriel, CA, USA; “The Hint of Coolness”, Fu Qiumeng Fine Art, New York, USA and “Midsummer”, PAU, Barcelona, Spain.”
Website: www.qlinphoto.com
Instagram: @qianlinnnnnnn
