MUNTHE ART MONDAY: FÍA YANG
Please introduce yourself and tell us about what you do.
I am Fía Yang, a multidisciplinary artist from China, now residing in Iceland, where the raw power of its living landscapes fuels my work.
My life took an unexpected twist at 26 when I followed love's call to Iceland, only to be met with heartache, anxiety and uncertainty. In this emotional whirlwind, something extraordinary happened — painting became my refuge.
Today, I'm empowered by art, blending traditional Chinese calligraphic strokes with guided body movements for large-scale works. Using natural materials/fabrics echoes the human-nature connection. While painting remains my cornerstone, I've wandered into uncharted territories—media, performance, and music—discovering fresh ways to express myself.
Could you explain more about how being a woman has affected your career?
Being a woman in my artistic journey has presented both challenges and advantages. While gender biases and stereotypes persist in the art world, I've also found a sense of empowerment and purpose in navigating these obstacles. Additionally, I've been fortunate to receive support and opportunities from women collectors, gallerists and entrepreneurs who recognize the value of diverse voices in the creative landscape. This dual experience has driven me to channel my unique perspective into my work, challenging norms and contributing to a more inclusive and balanced artistic community.
Can you name some other female (artist) that inspires you and explain why they do so?
Grimes and Pipilotti Rist have a special place in my roster of favorite artists. What sets them apart is their fierce resilience, defying the odds without sound formal art education. Grimes' boundary-pushing fusion of music and art is refreshingly audacious. Her unconventional approach and genre-blending mentality nudge me to explore my creative spectrum fearlessly.
Pipilotti Rist's multidisciplinary prowess with video and installation art is truly mind-bending. She crafts immersive experiences that resonate profoundly. These two trailblazers exemplify breaking free from conventions, urging me to chart my own artistic course with confidence. Their unapologetic artistry infuses my journey with the energy to venture beyond the ordinary, encouraging me to create authentically without compromise.
What has been the most challenging aspect of being a female artist?
One of the most significant challenges I've faced as a female artist, especially while nurturing my two young children, is contending with ingrained societal expectations.
Moreover, it's crucial to be vigilant, as there are individuals who may seek to exploit the vulnerabilities of female artists. This is a reality that female artists need to navigate, a challenge that's amplified by existing power dynamics. Additionally, invisible protocols persist in society that associates female artists' achievements with unspoken rules. These unspoken expectations can subtly shape perceptions and opportunities, necessitating a conscious effort to challenge and reshape these paradigms.
In addition to these challenges, there's also the understatement of the human experience from females’ perspective. The narratives of women artists can sometimes be overshadowed or undervalued, reflecting a broader cultural bias. As a result, it's not only about overcoming individual hurdles but also about shifting the collective perception of what female artists bring to the creative table and form the missing part of the history.
Fía is wearing our ELIGHT dress and EMU jacket.
What would you like people to notice in your artwork?
As I sat my own boundaries and chased my passions, I experienced a profound shift. My time in Iceland, where nature's force meets strong-minded women, has ignited my inner strength. Through my project "Burning Desire," I aim to spark introspection. I hope my story resonates and prompts others to confront their societal chains and self-imposed limits. By embracing my power and embracing desire's raw authenticity, I beckon people to tap into their passions and liberate themselves.
Lastly, I hold the belief that true fulfillment comes from embracing life itself, going beyond the confines of seeking definite answers.
