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

Hi Xi, what makes you happy? Why?
I always feel content while I was making my artwork. My crews and models in my art creations are mostly friends I’ve known for a long time, the shooting happens when we do short-term traveling, which has lots of fun and chill itself. Also seeing people appreciate and connect with my work can bring this happiness to the next level. Recently, my film work, <April 10th, 2022> was reviewed by Nick Knight who is my favorite photographer, and this film also featured on SHOWstudio, where can reach more audiences.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My oeuvre contains still images and experimental videos that blend candid observations with staged reproductions. Through these works, I strive to capture the essence of ordinary life by focusing on its intricate details.

The proudest project I did was a short film titled ” April 10th, 2020″ which was selected by Nick Knight and is now featured on SHOWstudio’s website. April 10, 2022, is a 2 min 18-second video completed by multiple surveillance cameras in 24 hours in a forest cabin. My idea is to let the models do whatever they want instead of setting up a staged story, I believe that fashion should be happened in daily life and combine everything imperfection together. And this film is supposed to let people relook at and find the beauty of daily life.

A project I want to mention is a series of photo projects titled “Playground” exhibited in Cafe China, a Michelin restaurant located in Manhattan. I created the Playground series of photographs during a difficult period in my artistic journey. Suffering from depression and feeling unfulfilled by my creative output, I decided to experiment with a new approach that relied heavily on touch rather than solely on the camera.
I began creating a group of clay sculptures, which I shaped and arranged through techniques such as dividing, squeezing, and assembling. As I worked with the material, I found that the process provided me with a sense of security, release, and satisfaction akin to that of a child at play.
The resulting photographs in the series showcase these sculptures, with visible fingerprints and scraps left behind as a testament to the creation process. The abstract shapes and colors of the clay sculptures symbolize the complex emotions I was experiencing at that time, allowing me to reconcile my melancholy feelings and depression. By engaging with my inner child through the colorful environment, I was able to find a renewed sense of creativity and purpose.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I would suggest a road trip on Route 66 which is the best way to experience the local culture. I was driving from Williams, AZ to Los Angels, CA, a part of Route 66, and the landscape and towns are impressive, riding on a wheel makes me able to enjoy my time at my pace. Then I would suggest spending a weekend on Joshua Tree, a national park in Califonia. the tree is a type of yucca plant that is native to the Mojave Desert, with stunning landscapes and unique desert scenery, and I think it would be an amazing experience. Also, it is a good way to escape from the city and take beautiful photos.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My partner Weihan Zhou is a super creative person that influenced me in my art career. 2018 was a difficult year for us in persuading the ideal life. Weihan was a person stand out and applied art schools in the United States. Under his encouragement, I start to learn English and make photos, as a result, I successfully get my Master’s degree at the School of Visual Arts( New York). His work is also recognized by the industry, such as his film has been screened at Anthology Film Archive. I also want to thank artists like Tomas Demand, Nick Knight, Pina Bausch, and Maya Darren, Ruth Van Beek who always can give inspiration to my works.

Website: z-x-i.com

Instagram: @tooosalt

Image Credits
Xi Zhou

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