VCA graduating artist Yixuan Zhao explores the depths of beauty in new paintings

Master of Contemporary Art student Yixuan Zhao deeply appreciates classical painting. In her latest project, Yixuan merges classical Rococo imagery with innovative painting techniques to explore themes of beauty, vanity, and the sublime. We spoke with Yixuan before the premiere of these paintings at the 2023 VCA Art Grad Show.

Hi Yixuan, could you introduce yourself and your work in the VCA Art Grad Show?

My name is Yixuan, and I’m in my final year of the Master of Contemporary Art. I have spent the past year producing a series of paintings that delve into the relationship between vanity and beauty. Achieved through the study of classical references, spatial principles, and contemporary painterly techniques, the works depict semi-abstract spaces inhabited by vague, figure-like forms. In this way, identities are blurred, and vanity evaporates, leaving behind a purer appreciation of beauty.

What inspired you to engage so deeply with historical painting? Can you share more about the process?

To me, nothing is original; every contemporary artwork somehow has roots in the past. Painting is an old and traditional art form, and because of this, I am enthusiastic about drawing inspiration from classical references. The visual aesthetic and mythical references of classical painting have always intrigued me.

My works in the show evolved from studies of classical Rococo paintings from the 19th century. These works were originally produced for the French elite, who gained their wealth by exploiting others. My artistic practice seeks to critically address this aspect of class injustice by maintaining an intentionally consistent format of obfuscating figures and concealing their faces.

At the same time, I also drew inspiration from nature. The vastness of the sky, clouds, and oceans inform the floating feeling of the surreal spaces in my paintings.

Now that graduation is just around the corner, what are your future plans? 

After graduation, my priority is to find a means to continue developing my artistic practice, which will allow me to achieve my goal of turning this into my career.

Why is art important in today’s world?

The contemporary world seems so busy. So many things are going on, and people need relief from it all. Physically living in the present for too long leads to stress and anxiety, but art offers people a chance to relax, open their minds, and experience their inner world.

You can view Yixuan's work at the 2023 VCA Art Grad Show on display from 23–30 November at the University of Melbourne Southbank campus. Open between 11am–5pm daily. Plan your visit.

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