Xueqin Xie, a Chinese-born, London-based photographer, explores the intricate dynamics of the “gaze” in European arts through her evocative self-portraits. Her work challenges traditional gender roles and questions the diversity of gender representation in classical paintings. We are proud to feature Xueqin in our exhibition ‘Stay Curious'. We had the opportunity to discuss her artistic journey, influences, and the themes that permeate her work.
Contemplating Identity in a Western Context
“As an Asian woman living in the Western world, I have always been contemplating my identity,” Xueqin begins.
“During my time in the UK, I enjoyed visiting European museums to view classical paintings. This sparked the idea of incorporating my own identity into the women depicted in these paintings, expressing the sense of confusion I feel about my identity as an Asian woman within Western culture.”
Examining the Male Gaze
Xueqin’s work delves into the representation of women in classical oil paintings, particularly how these portrayals were influenced by a predominantly male audience in a patriarchal society. “I am curious about how the male gaze interacted with and influenced the representation of women in these artworks,” she explains. This curiosity led her to model herself and reinterpret female figures from these paintings, posing as these classical characters in her self-portraits.
Challenging Gendered Representations
“While admiring classical oil paintings, I observed a stark contrast in the portrayal of male and female figures,” Xueqin notes. Women are often depicted as soft, delicate, and nude, presented as objects for the male gaze, whereas men are portrayed as serious and authoritative. To challenge this, she studied classic male figures from various paintings, prepared corresponding props, and posed as these figures in her self-portraits.
A Blend of Techniques
To create her work, Xueqin employs set design, makeup, and photography. This meticulous process allows her to transform herself into historical figures and re-evaluate the “gendered ethos” of classical paintings, drawing attention to the artificiality and ambiguity of gender in media.
Inspiration from Art and Personal Experience
“My ideas stem from visits to art galleries and reading articles about the male gaze,” she says.
Additionally, her personal experiences and self-exploration of female identity play a significant role in her creative process. A profound influence on her work is Bronzino’s “An Allegory with Venus and Cupid.” “The striking visual impact initially caught my attention, but the unconventional and imagined female stance from a male perspective struck me anew after further analysis.”
Influences and Inspirations
Xueqin draws most of her inspiration from female figures in classical oil paintings, such as those by Bronzino. She also finds inspiration in the women around her, including her family.
“These experiences have provided me with a unique perspective, especially when appreciating Western oil paintings,” she reflects.
Navigating Early Career Challenges
“As a young artist in the early stages of my career, seeking opportunities to showcase my work and submit applications is an ongoing challenge,” Xueqin admits. However, she views this as an essential aspect of being an artist and is gradually adjusting to it.
Engaging Viewers Through Personal Reflection
Xueqin hopes viewers engage with her work through their own experiences.
“It would be wonderful if my pieces could offer them something to reflect upon,” she says.
She believes that each person will interpret her work in their own way, bringing their unique perspectives to the viewing experience.
Cultural Contrasts and Common Experiences
Coming from China and educated in Eastern traditions, Xueqin has a significantly different cultural background from the Western world. This contrast inspired her to create her first piece. “Despite the differences between our cultural systems, many experiences we face as women are remarkably similar,” she notes. This realization has led her to deep reflection and a desire to explore these themes further in her work.
A Unique Photographic Style
Xueqin’s digital portraits are characterized by their striking reimagining of classical figures, often presenting herself in various historical contexts. Her exploration of the gaze and gender roles creates a dialogue between past and present, questioning the established norms and inviting viewers to see classical art through a contemporary lens. Her work’s artificiality and ambiguity highlight the performative nature of gender and challenge traditional representations in art.
In Xueqin Xie’s photography, we find a powerful blend of historical reference and modern critique. Her journey from contemplating her identity as an Asian woman in the Western world to reinterpreting classical paintings through her self-portraits is a testament to her creativity and insight. As Xueqin continues to explore and challenge the dynamics of the gaze and gender roles, we eagerly anticipate more thought-provoking works that invite us to reconsider our perceptions of art and identity.
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