I'm an artist who engages with symbolism. I created “The Birth” to express forms by the elements of the manifest which lays behind the abstract forms of Woman Figures…
We’ve seen the concept of birth many times during history. So many different experiences and observations from period to period. From the Renaissance to Frida Kahlo to the 21st century, here are my understanding and explanations;
The collection contains all the forms of the anatomical boundaries we have as living beings. Just like the womb symbolizes femininity, you may see the anatomical appearance of semen representing masculinity. The red color represents blood which belongs through the process… the most natural element that follows us through the “birth” is the blood itself I may say.
The Surrounding environment is “Black & White”
These two “colours” always blew me as an artist who was inspired by Daoist beliefs… Ying & Yang. The yin-yang symbol is interesting for a variety of reasons because the Daoists believe that the symbol represents “being.”
Being, does that mean living, breathing? I can think and imagine so, therefore, I, be? From idea to creation is a process of birth sometimes it is joyful sometimes it's not and sometimes it can be bittersweet or beautiful even ugly, many dynamics through our personal experiences, and with this collection, I will be telling mine…
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P1A
I am PIA, a multidisciplinary artist with a foundation in set and costume design, and this narrative unfolds the genesis and metamorphosis of my series, "Woman Figures."
Academic Foundations and Inspirations
My artistic journey is deeply rooted in an academic background from a fine arts high school followed by a specialization in Stage and Costume Design. The realms of theater, dramaturgy, and philosophy have been significant sources of inspiration, propelling my exploration into academic drawing and personal art. A pivotal moment in my artistic development occurred during my thesis on Alfred Jarry’s "Ubu Roi" (1896), a seminal work in the realm of surrealism and political satire. This experience was instrumental in shaping my approach to visual storytelling, particularly in how I conceptualize and render female forms.
The Genesis of Grotesque Beauty
"Ubu Roi’s" thematic exploration of absurdity and subversion led me to delve into the grotesque—a quest to find beauty within the ostensibly unappealing. This journey was visually articulated through my reimagining of the character Mama Ubu, whose transformation into a more pointed, sharp, and conceptually powerful figure underscored the themes of danger and power. This process was not only a method of communicating with the audience but also a dramaturgical tool that enriched my storytelling.
Artistic Unleashing and Emotional Catharsis
The transition from academic exploration to personal expression marked a significant phase in my artistic journey. The act of drawing became a means of liberation, where each sketch was a step towards unearthing the complexities of female anatomy and emotion. This period was also marked by personal challenges, including a battle with depression. Art became my refuge, leading to the creation of figures that mirrored my own state of being—transforming them into embodiments of my experience. These figures were never meant to conform to conventional notions of beauty; they were designed to provoke, to disturb, and ultimately, to reflect a process of purification and self-discovery.
Evolution and Expansion
The journey of "Woman Figures" evolved from sketches to a comprehensive collection that spans digital art, canvas paintings, and thematic series such as the "ZODIAC Collection." Each piece represents a chapter of emotional and artistic growth, exploring themes of pain, joy, and rebirth. The use of color, form, and symbolism has been deliberate, evolving in tandem with my personal and emotional landscape.
The Birth of Woman Figures and Beyond
The culmination of this journey led to the creation of significant works such as "THE BIRTH of Woman Figures," symbolizing a new beginning. This series reflects not just the physical act of birth but the rebirth of an artist and her art form. The incorporation of male elements in a subtle, nuanced manner further explores the themes of creation and origin.
Conclusion
The "Woman Figures" series is not merely a collection of surrealistic portrayals of the female form. It is a narrative woven from the threads of personal struggle, academic inquiry, and artistic evolution. This body of work invites viewers to look beyond the surface, to understand the profound journey of an artist seeking beauty in the grotesque, and ultimately finding redemption through creation.
Love,
PIA