Junyi Liu

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Born in: 1995, China

Lives in: New York City, USA

Media: Painting, Installation, Drawing

Describe your work in 3 words: Figurative, Realism, Contemporary

See More Work:  www.junyiliuart.com

Meat Joy - Oil on acrylic 40 x 40 in.

"I am influenced by both representational figurative art and contemporary art. I combine traditional methods and skills with themes that I am interested in as a contemporary artist. Besides presenting beautiful color and forms, I also want to explore difficulties we are facing in this world."

What themes does your work involve?
My works have a wide range of themes, from critiquing social issues to displaying the beauty of normal people.
Describe your creative process.
Usually, a certain scene came into my mind. Something about the visuals hooked me. The images were strong, beautiful, poetic, and suggestive. Then, the single images started to evolve, expand and move around, until they became complete ideas of paintings. Till this point, what I wanted to do was still just in my head. When I was ready to move on, I would start to take photo references or to prepare the materials I need. Sometimes it only takes a few days, some times a few months.
What influences your work? What inspires you? Why do you make art?
After the Meat Joy series, my works have lean towards daily life, such as "The City that Never Sleeps". Daily life is a good resource for me, and familiar scenes are more relatable for the audience. My personal experiences have also been reflected in my work, such as "Happily Ever After". Making art is a way for me to express, explore and grow.
What is good art? What makes a piece of art great?
It has to have something special in it, such as the material, technique, concept and story.
What is the role of the artist today?
To say things that others fear to say, to ask questions, to inspire, and to love.

This page was published by Circle Foundation for the Arts © CFA Press ∙ Images are courtesy of the artist