Slip

Xi Nan

Slip

2017

Porcelain, filaments, hair, plexi-glass; 6" x 4" x 5"

In my view, we are the architects of our own psychological spaces. We design the spaces subconsciously, and we are also the residents in our spaces as well as in reality. Sometimes, we are lost, or get trapped in our own mental spaces; we look for the exit sign to lead the way out to a haven, a way to find inner peace.
As my own architect, there are no keys or locks to my psychological space. My
consciousness is my pass—allowing myself to go through and maintain certain
spaces. I am fascinated by architecture and mechanical apparatus —these are
metaphorical devices for me, providing form and access to reflect, express and
evaluate my artwork, as well as my inner world.
As a maker, I create small-scale sculptural objects with clay and mixed media. In my work, I invite the viewer to experience and feel the fragility and vulnerability from my own anxiety and inner fear, as well as to reflect upon their own inner struggles. At the same time, I see my work as self-reflection, and self-realization as well as a means for healing.

About the artist: Xi Nan was born and raised in Jilin, China. She was selected nationally from China Disabled Person Federation to study abroad at Red Cross Nordic United World College in Norway and earned her International Baccalaureate degree in 2007. In 2011, she received her BA in studio art at Luther College, Decorah, Iowa. She took several ceramics courses at Maryland Institute College of Art, in Baltimore, Maryland.Xi Nan completed her MFA in ceramics at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth in 2015. Xi’s work has exhibited nationally including juried shows in Boston, Massachusetts; Chicago, Illinois; Cincinnati, Ohio and Washington, DC. Her more recent dual exhibition was at Sculpture Space NYC, Long Island City, NY. Xi Nan lives in Queens, NY and works in Long Island City, NY.

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