We recently connected with Yiyu Cao and have shared our conversation below.

Yiyu, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?

For me, this pivotal moment arose during my high school years when I found myself torn between attending an art college and opting for a more conventional educational path. While art undeniably sparked my creativity and passion, I also harbored interests in various other subjects. It was a decision that felt weighty and fraught with uncertainty.

However, everything changed when I had the opportunity to participate in a pre-college program at the Rhode Island School of Design. Stepping into that environment, surrounded by like-minded individuals and immersed in a world where creativity thrived, was transformative. It was there that I experienced a profound sense of belonging and fulfillment that extended far beyond the confines of a classroom.

In that nurturing and vibrant community, I discovered the true depth of my love for art. It wasn’t just about the act of creation; it was about the connection forged between artist and audience, the exploration of ideas, and the boundless potential for self-expression. Each stroke of the brush, every sketch, and sculpture became not just an artistic endeavor but a journey of self-discovery.

It was in those moments of creation that I found a sense of purpose and joy that I had never experienced before. The decision to pursue art professionally crystallized with a newfound clarity. It wasn’t just about choosing a career; it was about embracing a way of life—a life where passion and creativity intersected to form the foundation of my identity.

Since then, my journey in the arts has been a dynamic and enriching one, marked by growth, challenges, and countless moments of inspiration. Through exhibitions, collaborations, and personal projects, I’ve continued to explore and evolve as an artist, constantly pushing the boundaries of my craft and seeking new avenues of expression.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

My journey as a contemporary artist working in the field of jewelry has been a fascinating exploration of creativity and expression. It all began with a simple interest in creating everyday wear jewelry using techniques like beading and wire working. But as I delved deeper into my craft, I found myself drawn to the idea of merging portable installation and sculpture with the human body.

This fascination led me into the realm of contemporary art jewelry, where I discovered endless possibilities for experimentation and innovation. I realized that I didn’t just want to create jewelry for adornment; I wanted to craft pieces that would resonate deeply with the wearer, stirring up sentiments, emotions, and memories.

I’m driven by the desire to create jewelry that goes beyond mere decoration, transforming into objects of personal significance and meaning. Each piece I craft is intended to serve as a tangible reminder of moments, emotions, and experiences, becoming a wearable work of art that connects with the wearer on a profound level.

What sets my work apart is its ability to provoke thought and evoke emotion. By blurring the lines between jewelry and sculpture, I aim to challenge traditional notions of wearable art and invite viewers to engage with my creations in a more introspective way.

As I continue to explore this intersection between jewelry and contemporary art, I’m constantly pushing the boundaries of my craft and forging a unique artistic identity. My dedication to creating meaningful, evocative pieces sets me apart in the world of contemporary jewelry art, and I’m excited to see where this journey takes me next

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

Affordable and accessible spaces, encompassing studios, exhibition venues, and residency programs, stand as vital pillars in nurturing a flourishing creative ecosystem. These spaces serve as essential incubators, providing artists with the physical environment essential for their creative endeavors. Here, artists can freely experiment, innovate, and manifest their artistic visions into reality. Beyond mere creation, these spaces offer invaluable opportunities for artists to showcase their work to diverse audiences, fostering engagement and contributing to cultural dialogue. Through shared studio spaces and residency programs, collaboration, community, and the exchange of ideas flourish among artists from diverse backgrounds and disciplines. While existing programs already provide creative havens for artists, the expansion of such initiatives is paramount, ensuring even more artists can access the support and resources they need to thrive.

Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

Certainly! Research-wise, Are.na stands out as an invaluable resource. This platform offers a vast array of channels and blogs curated by individuals conducting research on a multitude of topics. It’s effortless to discover fascinating content within its expansive collection. As for opportunities, websites like Artwork Archive, Klimt 02, Creative Capitals, and Artenda are excellent resources. They provide avenues for artists to explore open calls for exhibitions, residencies, and other artistic opportunities, presenting avenues for growth and exposure within the creative community.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1_rainrain/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yiyu-cao-250b05291/