By: Anne Schulze
In this rapidly evolving era, contemporary art continues to silently demonstrate its unique charm and profound cultural exploration. Artist Xueer Gao, as a creator navigating between tradition and modernity, embodies this unique artistic quest through her works and career. Xueer Gao’s artistic journey began with a deep interest in colors and patterns, rooted in her childhood, which, over time, evolved into a broader exploration and practice of diverse art forms.
Xueer Gao’s decision to study Book Arts and Printmaking at the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, marked a significant step in her artistic exploration. Her academic background not only equipped her with various artistic skills but also ignited a deeper understanding of art. Through these studies and practices, Xueer Gao gradually developed her artistic perspective, attempting to blend traditional craftsmanship with modern artistic expressions, exploring the fusion of Eastern and Western cultures.
In the diverse artistic environment of the United States, Xueer Gao was particularly drawn to the delicate beauty of Chinese traditional culture. This aesthetic not only influenced her creative style but also led her to reexamine her identity and cultural roots in her artistic creation. Her works often showcase a meticulous capture of details and a profound understanding of traditional culture, inspired by her exposure to book arts in Philadelphia.
The exhibition at the Philadelphia Public Library provided Xueer Gao with a platform to display her creativity and skills. Her book artworks not only showcased her artistic talent but also conveyed the universal value and inspiration of art to the public. These works often combined traditional techniques with modern design, reflecting her deep understanding of materials and forms.
Starting in 2022, Xueer Gao has begun to emphasize the experimental exploration of materials and technology. Xueer Gao’s portfolio “2022ver” profoundly expresses this concept, particularly in her work “Print/Fold Multiples = Human Diversity We are all the same; we are all different,” where she uses paper folding and printing techniques to explore human individuality and universality. Each fold and print not only changes the physical form of the paper but also symbolizes individual diverse identities in society and culture.
In 2022, with “Print/Fold Multiples = Human Diversity We are all the same; we are all different,” she uses origami and printing techniques to explore human individuality and universality. Each folding and printing not only changes the physical form of the paper but also symbolizes the different identities of individuals in society and culture. From handmade paper to professional paper, the same origami technique can be used to obtain different results.
In her studio practice during the fall of 2022, Xueer Gao continued to use paper and Chinese traditional arts as a basis, creating a series of artworks. Works like “Flat – paper with laser cut” and “More than meet the eye – head cut paper (laser print)” demonstrate the possibilities of paper as a medium for both traditional and modern art through laser cutting and printing techniques. Especially her “Contradictory – Hanging Installation” and “Grow·Alter – Paper,” which combine natural materials like black beans and wood, explore the dialogue between nature and the artificial, as well as their visual and conceptual opposition and integration.
Her 2023 graduation exhibition work “Paper as Spring” further extends this exploration into new realms. This 100% plant fiber paper sculpture not only demonstrates the experimental and innovative use of materials but also reflects Xueer Gao’s concern for environmental sustainability. The piece, made without any adhesives, showcases the structural strength and flexibility achieved through pure paper pulp sculpture, symbolizing the harmonious coexistence between art and the environment.
Xueer Gao’s portfolios and exhibition projects not only demonstrate her growth and change as an artist but also reflect her profound thoughts on culture, materials, and the environment. Her art offers a glimpse of how an artist can integrate personal experiences and cultural heritage into modern artistic practice, exploring broader social and cultural issues.
Xueer Gao’s artistic journey is a quest for self-discovery and cultural exploration. Her works serve not only as vehicles for personal expression but also as bridges for communication and understanding between her and her audience. She believes that art is an experiment, one that extends beyond the art itself to involve humanity’s perception and understanding of the world. Xueer Gao’s story and works, with their unique perspectives and profound cultural explorations, reveal the infinite possibilities of contemporary art.
Published by: Nelly Chavez
