Claudia Shen – Artist Biography

 

Claudia Shen was born in Guizhou, China and moved to Canada when she was sixteen. She is a current Bachelor of Fine Arts student at Kwantlen Polytechnic University. She began participating in group exhibitions in 2022, including “Artist Choice” at Queen’s Park Gallery and the “Beginning’s End: An Artistic and Celebratory Send-Off” exhibition at Langley Centennial Museum, etc. She received the “Award of Merit” in both the Fraser Valley Potters Guild’s 2022 Juried Show “Of the Earth” and the 2023 Juried Show “Transformation.” She also received a scholarship for the Medalta student residency program and had a duo exhibition, “Fire Imprint.”

Claudia is keenly interested in emotions and the subconscious in psychology, which she expresses through her art. Her work conveys inner emotions, creates surreal scenes, and combines traditional materials with contemporary themes, reflecting a sense of contrast between tradition and innovation. She is a co-founder of One Percent Studio in Vancouver and currently lives in Richmond, BC.

Claudia Shen – Artist Statement

 

I am an artist who explores the intricate relationships between nature, life, and human thought. My creative process is not confined to any specific material, allowing me the freedom to experiment. Still, I often gravitate towards ceramics and painting as primary means to express my concepts. These mediums enable me to capture both the fragility and strength of the human experience and the natural world.

Psychology plays a central role in my work. I am deeply fascinated by the complexities of the mind, particularly how emotions and subconscious thoughts shape our perception of reality. Through my art, I seek to explore these inner landscapes, inviting viewers to consider their mental processes and the societal challenges related to collective thought. My pieces often grapple with the psychological issues we encounter in everyday life, from personal struggles to broader societal concerns, whether through abstract representations or more literal depictions.

My work strives to evoke contemplation on the cyclical nature of life and the interconnectedness of humans and the environment. By examining themes of symbiosis and the collective consciousness that binds society, I aim to create a space where viewers can pause and reflect on their place within these larger systems. Ultimately, my goal is to provoke thought, inspire dialogue, and foster a deeper awareness of the delicate balance that exists between life, nature, and the human mind.