Meet Jie Shao | artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jie Shao and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jie, we’d love to hear what makes you happy.
I find happiness in many things related to art making, some of the things that stand out for me are the creative process, seeing others engaging with people’s work, learning and growing as an artist, and being a part of the art community.

In addition to sculptures and printmaking, I mainly focus on, mastering a new medium skill that always brings me satisfaction, the process to approach metalworking, the ability to create new forms and textures, the durability of metalwork, and the technique to create unique etchings on metal plates.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
As an artist, I am constantly experimenting with a variety of materials to create my work. Particularly drawn to metal, as it is a versatile material that can be shaped and formed in countless ways. From plate, casting to wire, metal can be used in a range of mediums, including printmaking, sculpture, and installation. By heating metal to high temperatures, it gets a new life and allows it to take on new forms. This process of reworking and reforming the material is a constant source of inspiration for my recent practice. Reworking with the material could be analog to a painter working with one canvas repeatedly. As layers of paint to a canvas over time, building up depth and texture, manipulate and reshape metal, creating new forms and textures.

Working with metal could be technically challenging. The process of heating and reshaping metal requires a high level of skill and precision, as well as access to specialized equipment, and a range of tools for shaping and manipulating the metal.

Mastering techniques, having critical thoughts, and developing concepts are all important aspects of an artist’s studio work. However, being an artist is much more than just the work created in the studio. It also involves organizing the relationship between different works and understanding the connections between the artwork and the world around us. The constant change in the social and political climate, and to consider how the work might reflect or comment on these issues.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
The High Line in New York City is a great option for a fun and unique experience during a week-long visit. The High Line is an elevated park built on an old railroad track that runs through the Meatpacking District and Chelsea neighborhoods. It offers great views of the city, as well as art installations, gardens, and seating areas. Other places to visit in the area include the Whitney Museum of American Art, the Hudson River Park, and the Meatpacking District.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Family and friends, as always.

Website: https://jieshao.work/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/?hl=en