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Jessie X.Z.
13am.07
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Text-Ashes-Ink
​Eternal Recurrence
As an interdisciplinary artist, jeweller, new media creator, and psychological artist, I am deeply interested in the interaction between emotions, cognition, and the physical world. My artistic practice is a continuous exploration of the nature of intrusive memories caused by different factors, integrating various media and technologies to explore the cyclical regeneration of emotions and cognition, with the fermentation and materialization of memories. This interest stems from my personal experiences with ADHD and PTSD, and how these conditions have shaped my perception and interaction with the world.
I was born in China, spent a decade in Toronto, Canada, and relocated to the UK three years ago. My artistic journey began with traditional goldsmithing in Canada and evolved to embrace digital tools like ZBrush and 3D printing at Birmingham City University. At the Royal College of Art, my work transformed further through material experiments, exploring Nietzsche's concept of eternal recurrence and engaging in chemical reactions, and creating ink from ashes, leading to innovative digital art, animation, and interactive installations.
My work is deeply influenced by my studies in philosophy and psychology, particularly the concept of eternal recurrence and cognitive therapy. These theories provide a framework for my exploration of intrusive memories and emotional cycles. By transforming personal emotions into art, I aim to provoke the audience to reflect on their own memories and experiences.
A recurring theme in my work is the transformation and regeneration of emotions. This is exemplified in my independent research project, where I burn written words into ash, then transform the ash into ink for continuous writing. This cyclical process symbolizes cognitive restructuring and the perpetual nature of emotional processing.
Creating art has been a way for me to reconcile with my past and find a renewed passion for life. Through my work, I strive to create an environment where personal and universal human experiences intersect, offering a space for reflection and emotional engagement.
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Projects
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Jessie Xinwen Zhang
Artist / Jeweler / Goldsmith
2023 - 2024
2022 - 2023
2018 - 2021
Royal College of Art
MA: Jewellery and Metal
George Brown College (Canada)
Advanced Diploma: Jewelry Art
Birmingham City University
BA (HONS): Jewellery and Silversmithing