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

Hi Yezi, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I was born and raised in China and have been staying in the U.S. for about a decade. My origin and background, whether consciously acknowledged or not, have consistently shaped my perceptions and responses, especially under the context and intervention of Western social structure. With a rare deftness and sensitivity, my eyes translate the legibilities of everyday life into something more muddy and opaque. My artistic expression is the integration of hybrid cultures and languages, along with a deliberate disillusionment that challenges the prevailing optimism often associated with American culture.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My artwork serves as a conduit for the myriad emotions and facets of my identity, shaped by the intricate blend of my cultural background and experiences navigating diverse social frameworks. I’ve encountered challenges in connecting with a broad audience, as the boundaries between individuals and cultures naturally create barriers to understanding. Initially, I grappled with the frustration of viewers interpreting my work in ways divergent from my intentions. However, over time, I’ve come to accept that such misinterpretations are inherent to the translation of one language into another, particularly when art serves as a form of expression. As my artistic journey progresses, I’ve embraced the role of my creations not merely as conveyors of ideas, but as bridges facilitating the transmission of emotions and sensations.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Group Exhibition “The MFAs of LA”
Nov 11th – 22th, 2023
Goodmother Gallery
1212 S Santa Fe Ave, Los Angeles

“Reverie Retrouvée”
Dec 9th- Jan 24th, 2023
Unveil Gallery
200 Technology Dr Suit F, Irvine, CA 92618

“The Realm of Possibilities”
Feb 9th – 25th, 2024
Sasse Museum of Art
300-A South Thomas Street Basement Level, 300 S Thomas St, Pomona, CA 91766

Solo Exhibition
“The Cornoer of My Eye”
Jan 13th – March 10th, 2024
XELA Institute of Art
2176 Pacific Ave, Long Beach, CA 90806

Website: yezilou.com

Instagram: departurepoem

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