Exploring the captivating realm of contemporary glass art, we encounter a world of innovation and boundary-pushing. From glass that emits a dazzling orange glow to its malleability at 1200 degrees, artists are challenging traditional perceptions of this everyday material. In this interview, we delve into the artistry of Jiayun Ding, a talented glass artist who seamlessly integrates intangible emotions with tangible glass-based expressions.
Jiayun Ding, a young and accomplished artist, holds a Bachelor of Arts in Glass and Ceramics from the University of Sunderland, UK, and a Master of Arts in Glass Art from the same university’s Visual Arts program.
Her work delves into contemporary issues, addressing social, economic, and environmental concerns while also delving into the intricate dynamics between individuals. By utilizing glass as her primary medium and incorporating various materials, Jiayun constructs visually compelling narrative environments that invite viewers to perceive, experience, and contemplate. Her thought-provoking installations have garnered recognition in international exhibitions and media publications, solidifying her position as a prominent figure in the world of contemporary glass art.
In her earlier work, Jiayun used glass as her medium to make a statement about the art market. She cleverly played with the idea that glass was “the sole permissible form of currency in art transactions,” highlighting the economic bubble phenomenon in the art market. By working with the delicate qualities of glass, she effectively conveyed the fragility and uncertainty inherent in art dealings. Additionally, Jiayun’s work also aimed to critique the secretive connections between buyers and artists, shedding light on the often-opaque nature of the art industry.
Jiayun Ding found inspiration from a BBC documentary discussing the overpricing of artworks in the art market bubble. The documentary highlighted how artists bought their own works and resold them at auction, and the various ambiguities in the circulation of artworks. Jiayun observed that contemporary societal trends had a domino effect, including in the art market. As a glass artist, she is dedicated to expressing the real issues of contemporary society.
Jiayun Ding’s art reflects modern consciousness and the importance of communication in human development. She highlights the prevalence of ineffective communication in today’s society, especially in intimate relationships, and how it can lead to unresolved conflicts and mental health issues. Jiayun’s utopian art expresses the idea that there is no absolute truth in alternative thinking.
In one of her installations, “Is there any free will in the communication?” depicts two individuals living in a world resembling the Matrix, with their heads fading in colour to reveal transparent hues. Electronic screens display words that allow each person to see the true thoughts of the other. This unique form of silent, face-to-face communication is intended to foster a direct mental resonance between the individuals.
Moreover, this piece was featured at the “Glass Beginnings” exhibition at the General Office Gallery in association with The Contemporary Glass Society (CGS) during the International Festival of Glass 2024.
Jiayun, as an artist centre her work around global issues. She portrays the interdependence between modern life and the environment, emphasizing its significance for human existence. The increase in temperatures results in the spread of seawater, leading to elevated sea levels and temperatures. Excessive agriculture consumption results in fertilizers and organic matter being washed into the coast by rivers, leading to harmful algal blooms (HAB). These toxic algae enter the food chain, producing potent neurotoxins that can cause high mortality rates.
In the piece “The Deadly Virus in Sea”, Jiayun compared Harmful Algal Blooms (HAB) to a dangerous oceanic pathogen, drawing connections to the global COVID-19 pandemic. The stunning glass sculpture, which takes inspiration from both harmful algae and the structure of the coronavirus, was meticulously crafted using a range of glass blowing techniques. When exposed to black light, the sculpture emits a vibrant green glow, capturing the essence of both harmful algae and the infectious nature of the virus.
In addition, this artwork was selected as a finalist in the sculpture section of the Visual Art Open 2024 after a challenging selection process.
This installation, designed by Jiayun, aims to draw attention to ocean warming. It is intended to be installed on top of a two-meter-high lighthouse and depicts the potential future sea level rise. While the projected impact of sea warming might not be as extreme in the short term, the installation serves as an exaggerated artistic warning.
Jiayun Ding’s artistic journey is deeply rooted in a fervent desire to shed light on the myriad of contemporary societal issues and contradictions. Through her artwork, she skillfully navigates these intricate issues, and in doing so, she endeavors to create tangible social value while leaving a positive impact on our reality. What sets Jiayun apart is her adeptness at seamlessly integrating the distinctive characteristics of glass as a material into her artistic themes. This unique approach allows her to challenge and redefine traditional perceptions of glass art, making her work both visually captivating and thought-provoking.
Q: What motivates you to keep exploring and experimenting, using glass as your primary medium to blend extension and personal expression in your art, resulting in a final display that diverges from traditional glass manufacturing processes?
A: Glass holds a special place in my heart as it beautifully balances transparency and opacity. Much like people, it can be both strong and delicate, requiring careful treatment to avoid damage. In my creative process, I aim to merge the essence of my work with the unique characteristics of glass. Working with glass is therapeutic for me, as it demands my full attention and patience. My hope is that when people see my creations, they not only appreciate the physical form but also connect with the underlying concepts and ideas.
Q: If you had to encapsulate your body of work in a single sentence, how would you portray it?
A: Be mindful of the present state of affairs and the ongoing developments in today’s world and utilise this contemporary understanding as a foundation for urging individuals to focus on the current state of the world.
Q: Your works often focus on current events in the world. How can artists effectively communicate positive influences on society and contribute to social value through their work, especially considering their focus on contemporary global events?
A: The role of art in today’s society goes beyond just enhancing our appreciation of beauty. Contemporary art serves as a means to convey important social messages and values through exaggerated artistic expression, prompting viewers to recognize and contemplate various social issues. The aesthetic appeal of the artwork draws in the audience and serves as a gateway to their inner thoughts, sparking reflection and social awareness. In many ways, contemporary art acts as a remedy for societal concerns, providing valuable feedback and driving my creative growth. As an artist who primarily works with glass, I strive to explore and illuminate individual perceptions of contemporary society, encouraging viewers to reconsider their role in shaping and reshaping our social framework, thus expanding their knowledge and understanding.