Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Xiangni Song. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Alright, Xiangni thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?
Pursuing a career in the arts comes with its own set of challenges and uncertainties. If you’re seeking a comfortable and easy life, it may be best to consider a different path. The truth is, the life of an artist is not always easy, and success is not guaranteed. Despite the efforts and hard work of many talented artists, they may still go unnoticed by the world.
Art-making can also be a painful process, as creativity often stems from personal experiences and emotions. The process can be slow, draining, and require a lot of time and energy, sometimes at the cost of relationships with friends and family.
That being said, the rewards of being an artist can be immeasurable. If you have a passion for art and are willing to take risks, the journey can be fulfilling, regardless of the outcome. It’s important to weigh the potential challenges and uncertainties before committing to a career in the arts.
Xiangni, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
As an artist, I specialize in creating narrative paintings, drawings, ceramics, and printmaking. With an educational background in illustration, my style is influenced by a diverse range of sources, including novels, folktales, films, and animations. My artwork often reflects personal experiences from my life and combines both observation and imagination to bring the scenes to life.
I am drawn to the use of distorted bodies, personified animals, unusual spaces, and vibrant colors in my work. Each piece I create has a unique story to tell, and I strive to translate these emotions and experiences into my images. I am transparent with my feelings and use my art as a means of storytelling, expressing emotions that may be difficult to put into words.
Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
Art is my outlet for self-expression. Painting and drawing provide me with a comfortable, efficient, and safe means to communicate my thoughts and emotions. I am drawn to capture the things that interest me, be it awkward moments, poignant scenes, relationships between humans and animals, or the impact of humans on the environment. Through my art, I am able to depict my imagination and thoughts without the need for explanation. Each piece tells a unique story, and I welcome others to interpret and understand it in their own way.
How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?
Society is showing increased interest and support for the arts and artists compared to the past. To further cultivate this growth, I believe it is important to provide financial support to art students and artists in the form of improved facilities and lower costs for art supplies and studio rentals. Some companies are already taking steps in this direction, and I have high hopes that the environment for those in the art community will continue to improve.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.xiangnisong.com
- Instagram: @catcantspeak
Image Credits
Catcantalk_xiangnisong. jpg: Cat Can Talk, oil on canvas, 24 x 18″ Friends_xiangni_song. jpg: Friends, oil on canvas, 20 x 16″ Song_Xiangni_CantSeeIt.jpg: Can’t See It, oil on canvas board, framed, 16 x 12″ Song_Xiangni_Floorreach.jpg: Floor Reach, oil on canvas board, 16 x 12″