Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Sherly Fan. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Sherly, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

I began my artistic journey when I was about 6 years old through a creative drawing and painting class. My mom challenged me to choose an interest that I would never give up, and art classes resonated with me. I’ve been learning from the same teacher for about ten years, and every summer, I joined the group on live sketching trips to different historical sites in China. These excursions inspired imaginative paintings based on our travels. I hadn’t thought I would actually pursue art as a career, but I guess the seeds planted early on had to grow in some way.

Even though I practiced art extensively as a child, my family never encouraged me to pursue it professionally. When applying to U.S. colleges, I only sought general liberal arts programs. I chose the University of Wisconsin-Madison, initially planning to study journalism due to the program’s strong reputation. However, during a discussion about my future aspirations, I mentioned my fascination with the lifestyle portrayed in ‘The Devil Wears Prada.’ My advisor suggested I explore the Textile and Fashion Design program, which had a collaboration with the Fashion Institute of Technology. I decided to give it a try and found great joy in the creative projects, though I realized the fashion industry itself was not for me. This led me to pursue a Master of Fine Arts program. The vast experimental space I was afforded in the MFA program made me realize that this was the inevitable path I both wanted and needed to follow.

Sherly, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

As an interdisciplinary artist, I am deeply committed to exploring the complex interplay between identity and media. My work, which blends traditional narrative forms with innovative multimedia elements and interactive public performances, aims to expand conversations around self-perception and societal norms. Notable projects like ‘CAN YOU TAKE THIS SERIOUSLY’ (CYTTS), ‘Infinite Critic,’ and ‘Layers of Identity’ use humor and vintage aesthetics to critique and rethink the pervasive influence of technology and cultural stereotypes on our self-image.

What excites me most is the dynamic interaction between the audience and the art. In ‘Layers of Identity,’ participants become part of the artwork—leaving their mark in ‘Paint Me,’ exploring vulnerability in ‘Can You See My Face,’ and confronting external judgments in ‘Can You Put On My Head.’ These performances not only deepen engagement but also encourage viewers to reflect on their own identities and the layers they conceal.

My approach of integrating humor with relatable visual styles makes complex issues more accessible and engaging. This method transforms the art experience into a shared, reflective journey, highlighting the transformative power of participation.

I am currently developing a new series on girlhood and its cultural representations, exploring this theme through experimental installations. Additionally, I am expanding my work into performance and sculpture pieces that delve into identity exploration through facemasks, further examining how digital spaces shape our personas.

With upcoming collaborations and multimedia projects, including interactive performances, I continue to challenge traditional narratives and invite broader participation. These endeavors not only mark the evolution of my artistic journey but also serve as an open invitation for deeper dialogue on identity and self-awareness in today’s world.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist for me is the opportunity to confront my insecurities and truly understand myself. Creating art allows me to share my most genuine and unique perspectives with the world, which is both exciting and deeply fulfilling. Each piece is a reflection of my inner world, crafted to engage and resonate with others. The ultimate reward comes when my work not only connects deeply with audiences but also helps them feel understood or see things from a new perspective. These moments of connection and impact are the cherries on top of the creative process.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?

One common misconception non-creatives might have about being an artist is the belief that it’s all about creating work and that the rest will naturally follow. I once thought this too, viewing art more as a hobby than a viable career. However, once I embarked on this journey, I realized how inaccurate that perception is.

Being an artist involves much more than just creation. It’s about promotion, networking, and continuously applying for grants and open calls. Essentially, it’s like building and managing a one-person brand and business. Artists often wear many hats, from marketer to administrator, and these roles are rarely acknowledged. Despite these challenges, I’ve discovered that there are many people pursuing art professionally, each carving out unique paths in this field. It’s fascinating to see the diversity of approaches and how each artist’s journey unfolds differently.

Understanding this complexity might help non-creatives appreciate the multifaceted nature of an artist’s work and the dedication it requires. It’s not just about the art itself, but about everything that supports and surrounds the creative process.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://sherlyfan.com/
• Instagram: sherlyfanstudio

Image Credits

Steve Milligan, Ye Hou, Alaric Zhou, Shiraz Ahmed, Dou Jiajia