Xinyu Zhang: Sculpting Connections Between Fragility and Resilience
Xinyu Zhang, known in artistic circles as DayDay, stands at the forefront of contemporary sculpture, embodying a fusion of traditional craftsmanship and avant-garde exploration. Her creative journey, deeply rooted in personal struggles and a quest for genuine connections, has led her to push the boundaries of materiality, resulting in artworks that resonate with profound emotional and existential themes.
Born in Wuhan, China, Xinyu’s artistic endeavors began to take shape during her undergraduate years at the Hubei Institute of Fine Arts. There, she immersed herself in the world of traditional sculpture, laying a solid foundation for her later evolution into the realm of contemporary art. Xinyu’s journey is characterized by a relentless pursuit of self-expression and a desire to transcend the boundaries of conventional artistic norms.
Xinyu Zhang’s artwork is a testament to her acute observations of daily life, existential musings, and an insatiable curiosity about materials. Through her exploration of wood, metal, and foam, she navigates the intricate dance between chaos and intuition, creating sculptures that serve as tangible meditations on the complexity of self-awareness. The minimalist lines and symbols that characterize her art reveal a delicate balance between design principles and the emotive qualities of fine art.
Her academic pursuits further propelled his artistic vision. After completing her Bachelor’s degree in sculpture at HIFA, Xinyu ventured to the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC), where she pursued a Master’s in Fashion, Body, and Garment. This interdisciplinary approach allowed her to expand her creative horizons, contributing to the unique fusion of elements evident in her later works.
Xinyu Zhang’s commitment to forging connections with her audience sets her apart in the art world. She views her creations as a form of dialogue, inviting viewers to engage and participate in the interpretative process. This interactive element becomes particularly pronounced in her public installations, which serve as extensions of her presence in the world. Xinyu sees art not only as a solitary endeavor but also as a communal experience, where the audience becomes an integral part of the narrative.
Her accolades, including recognition from the ZengZhuShao Sculpture Fellowship, the Lisa Wainwright Grad Merit Scholarship from SAIC, and being selected as an invited artist for TEDxChicago, underscore the impact of her work on both academic and public platforms. Xinyu’s art not only reflects her personal journey but also encapsulates the broader human experience – the struggles, the desire for connection, and the perpetual quest for self-mastery.
Xinyu Zhang website: https://iamdayday.com
