Shuo Hao, a Chinese artist based in Paris, has a unique practice that is deeply rooted in the ancient text of Yijing. This cosmological book provides a system of understanding for a world in constant flux, using the five elements of earth, water, air, fire, and metal to structure relationships between humans and nature. Hao’s work revolves around antique furniture, sourced from auctions and second-hand shops, with a preference for aged wood dating back to the 16th-20th centuries.
Her intuitive approach to selecting objects for her art involves painting panels or doors of these furniture pieces, transforming them into surreal works of art. Describing her process as a form of self-repair, Hao draws inspiration from Jungian psychology, finding therapeutic value in gathering and arranging pieces to create a sense of wholeness.
The paintings created by Shuo Hao feature surreal and celestial imagery, often depicting hybrid creatures and ancient mythological references. The use of lustrous colors and intricate details evoke moments of transition and transformation. Through her art, she explores themes of identity, personal experiences, and the interconnectedness of all things.
Recently closing a solo exhibition, Shuo Hao is in a phase of reflection and reorientation, turning to writing as a companion to her painting practice. By writing daily thoughts and stories, she finds a sense of being alive and connected to her art on a deeper level.
To see more of Shuo Hao’s work, visit her Instagram profile. Her unique blend of ancient wisdom, surreal imagery, and therapeutic process make her art a captivating exploration of the human experience.
