Suyao Tian

My primary medium is watercolor, but I also use other media such as pen and ink and markers to define the details of each painting, layers, and visual depth. Mark-making, in this way, aids me in the creation of both micro and macro worlds. My creative process is to extract the fragments of memory and separate, reorganize, and integrate them. It is a process of self-release and expression. These peculiar images often appear in my memory, through dreams and subconscious imaginings and I use abstraction to catch a moment, feeling, and unclear forms that pop into my imagination. I use my painting to understand the relationship between humanity, nature, and the universe. I continue to explore the internal questions of who we are and where we are going. In a way, my mind is like another plane of existence. My paintings represent the places I have been and the things I have seen in the world of my imagination.

Human consciousness is tangible and sacred. It is a secret space where no one else can be unless you let them in. That is why many of us are afraid to look inside because we’re afraid to be alone with our thoughts. I think of my work as a "prompt"—the abstract shapes, biomorphic figures, and unknown elements pull a viewer into an imaginative state. inviting everyone to explore and have a conversation with themselves. My work creates a peaceful and safe space that hopefully invites the viewer’s mind to wander and explore, Those who have viewed my work have said that they find my work peaceful and they find my work offers positive encouragement and a sense of healing by encouraging introspection.

Artist Statement I CV I Bio