portfolio by jia zeng

 

My artworks focus on exploring the intangible behind the tangible and seeing them as an assemblage. I combine multiplicity into one to present a structure of the principle. By emphasizing the intangible qualities that function in a non-physical way, I present them with animations in my work. As the tangible is obvious and above the surface, I use physical elements as the representation, such as ceramics, and plaster. I combine both parts as a whole, and present them with combinations. 

Individuals are brought into an assemblage, functioning as a whole, and transforming. The changes in the intangible elements can be unobservable but reflected in the tangible. As a brain, the intangible part of myself can be the unconsciousness, which needs to dive in to explore; the tangible part is showing on the surface, evident and apparent. As a cup of carbonated drink, the intangible is the pleasantness I create for the drinker; the tangible is the fat I bring to the drinker. As a nail, my growth is affected by the person’s emotions. Assemblage is the color gray that involves many other colors. 

I observe the movements of the assemblage, and flow with the dynamicity as a participant. I rebuild connections when elements go metamorphosed. 

Assemblage is a variable keep-changing subject in my art and I experiment with them as they merge the components. As a result, I explore assemblages as a way of functioning to experience things.

 

Jia Zeng is originally from China but now lives in Indiana. She is a four-year senior at Interlochen Arts Academy and has also attended Interlochen Arts Camp for one summer. She has won several Scholastic Art & Writing awards. Her works focus on visualizing the intangible behind the tangible functioning as an assemblage by using both digital and physical mediums. She will be attending the School of the Art Institute of Chicago next year.

Our 2023 cover image is the second piece in this portfolio.