Zhi Ying

Bio

Zhi Ying is an emerging Silversmith and Jewellery Designer based in Hangzhou, China. She received her BFA (Jewellery Design and Lacquer Art) from Tianjin Academy of Fine Arts in Tianjin, China, and her MFA in Jewellery from Edinburgh College of Art, Scotland, UK. Her latest Degree Show collection "Weaving Memories" try to narrate her understanding of memory through these conventional knitting techniques and somewhat childlike illustrations.

Statement

About Weaving Memories
My work originates from childhood fading memories, which are recorded by the furniture. Inspired by photos of old furniture, It is no longer a specific copy of a drawer or cabinet. I focused on thinking about how to play with the characteristics of this furniture. The structure and patterns of the work are reminiscent of worn woven objects, drawers, and porcelain. I tried to narrate my understanding of memory through these conventional knitting techniques and somewhat childlike illustrations.
The production process of the work mainly uses metalwork and interesting reduction forms, which can be regarded as a combination of miniature art and narrative jewellery. Brass and silver will be the primary carrier materials. The damaged woven parts convey the passing of time and nostalgia. The braided brass will be gold-plated, which is in powerful contrast to the broken rattan knit part.
I am fascinated by these household items because they are objects of intimacy. Furniture carries memories and emotions; they are like witnesses to the passage of time. The longer they are used, the more stories are recorded.
I hope "Weaving Memories" is warm and touching. While watching my work, the audience can get healing and a moment's rest, but also let them discover the beauty of imperfection, the beauty of broken/ damage, the beauty of daily life: even the chairs, drawer handles and cabinets.
 

CV