ài,ái 愛,癌
A Study of Wood 木的研究
Polaroid Diary 寶麗來日記
The Stranded Whale 擱淺的鯨魚
Queer Propoganda Poster 酷兒海報
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Queer Propaganda Poster
2023-Ongoing
Inkjet Prints on Silk
In an era where the swiftness of technological advancement has not only accelerated the pace of life but also reshaped aesthetic values and social interactions, "Queer Propaganda Poster" emerges as a profound artistic response. This project, deeply rooted in the cultural and spiritual shifts of modern Chinese society, seeks to reclaim and redefine the narrative of queerness in a context where its expression is often suppressed or unacknowledged.
Drawing inspiration from the iconic red and white political slogans ubiquitous during China's socialist era, this project resonates through its form and message. The choice of silk organza as the medium is deeply personal and intentional, connecting my own heritage from the world’s largest silk-producing area (the places where I was born are famous for Silk, which also Chinese propaganda uses this type on the street) to the fabric of the work. This favorite material of mine not only symbolizes a physical connection to my roots but also embodies the delicate yet resilient nature of the queer identity.
In a society where queerness is often invisible or 'forbidden', these posters daringly showcase Queer Photography, boldly printed onto silk organza using digital technology. This fusion of traditional elements with modern digital artistry underscores the evolving nature of queer expression in China. The slogans employed in these works, such as "Recognize the situation, abandon illusions" and "To love is a human right," are subversively recontextualized to challenge and critique prevailing norms and beliefs about gender and sexuality.
The images, potent with erotic power, also delve into the impact of AI on personal aesthetic biases and the societal effects of technology, particularly in relation to masculinity and gender roles. "How to be a man?" This question echoes the current struggle in Chinese society, where traditional gender notions are continuously challenged by the influx of feminist ideologies and the rise of consumerism and social media.
The portrayal of masculinity in these works is critical and multifaceted, reflecting the complex and often contradictory narratives surrounding male gender roles in contemporary China. By juxtaposing traditionally 'masculine' attributes with the often stigmatized 'feminine' qualities, the project challenges the absurdity of linking personal gender expression to national destiny.
"Queer Propaganda Poster" is not just an artistic endeavor; it is a bold statement against the backdrop of a society grappling with the intricacies of gender, sexuality, and national identity. It is a call to acknowledge and celebrate the diverse expressions of queerness, challenging the narrative that equates strength with conformity and weakness with diversity. In the luminous shadow of national destiny, this project illuminates the possibilities of gender plurality and the right to self-expression, advocating for a future where every individual narrative is valued and heard.