Global Talent Art Prize (3rd edition)
1st Winner

Qihui Gong: relationship between real identity and the virtual world

12.05.2023

Qihui-Gong_I-am-lily-we-are-all-lily

I am lily, we are all lily, Dimension: 1150 X 2100 pixel, Qihui Gong

 

Qihui Gong was born and raised in China, where they were exposed to the country’s rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions. This upbringing heavily influenced their art, which often incorporates traditional Chinese motifs and techniques. In their work, she explores themes of identity, memory, and the human experience. They often use surreal imagery and symbolism to convey these ideas, creating dreamlike worlds that are both beautiful and haunting.

 

Artist has been creating art for years, with a focus on exploring the intersection of technology and creativity. Her previous projects have included interactive installations, digital art pieces, experimental films and video performances.  

Qihui-Gong_The-Void-Dream

The Void Dream, Medium: Digital, Dimension: 1300 X 2100 pixel, Qihui Gong

Qihui Gong’s background showcases her passion for art and technology, which is reflected in her education, career, and numerous awards and honors. Her unique perspective and expertise in both fields make her a valuable contributor to the evolving world of digital art. 

Unclear (2015) HD color video with sound 3 m 03 s, Qihui Gong

Significant work “Unclear” (2015) shows approach memories with a sense of mindfulness and self-awareness, recognizing the emotions and thoughts they may bring up and using them as opportunities for growth and healing. By doing so, we can better understand our desires and work towards fulfilling them in a healthy and meaningful way.  It is a common experience to feel like our memories are fragmented and disconnected, making it difficult to find a central theme or meaning. However, this search for coherence can also be seen as an opportunity to reflect on the transitions and changes that have occurred in our lives. 

Senda_01_QG

 Qihui Gong

       

Therefore, the quest for a theme or meaning in our experiences can serve as a means of introspection and personal growth. By examining the subtle connections between seemingly disparate events, we can gain insight into our own journey and perhaps find a greater sense of purpose.

Video Installation (2019), Dimension variable, Qihui Gong

        

Video installation “Screenemotion” (2019) makes the viewer think that while code is typically used to perform specific tasks, it is possible to use programming languages to create artistic expressions that convey emotions. This can be achieved through the use of visual or auditory elements, such as animations or sound effects, that evoke a particular feeling in the viewer or listener. 

Qihui Gong

Her ideas bring to mind video works of Jon Rafman, who uses virtual reality as a medium to explore the impact of technology on human behavior and emotions, and how it affects our perception of reality.  Qihui Gong also delves into the concept of identity and how it is shaped by our interactions with others in both physical and virtual spaces. 

Qihui Gong

        

As people spend more time online, the line between their real and virtual identities becomes blurred, leading to questions about privacy, security, and the authenticity of online interactions. This has prompted Qihui Gong to rummage deeper into the psychological, social and artistic implications of this phenomenon. 

«In our increasingly digital era, the relationship between real identity and the virtual world has become a fascinating and complex exploration subject. Through my artwork, conceptually, I seek to delve into the profound implications and interplay between our authentic selves and the personas we create online. I aim to provoke contemplation and spark dialogue about the evolving nature of identity, the impact of technology, and the blurred boundaries between the real and the virtual», Qihui Gong says.

Qihui Gong

Virtual reality has emerged as a new medium for artists to create immersive experiences for their audiences. As technology has advanced, VR art has evolved from simple 360-degree videos to fully interactive and multi-sensory installations. 

One of her recent projects involves using virtual reality as a medium for creating immersive art experiences. Artist believes that virtual reality has come a long way since its inception and has the potential to revolutionize the way we experience and interact with art. 

Qihui Gong

VR interactive art installations and video performances, and how they can continue to evolve over time, potentially incorporating new technologies or environments, are of genuine interest. As society becomes more technologically advanced, it will be interesting to see how artists use these advancements to create even more immersive and interactive experiences for their audiences. 

[1] Farago, Jason. “How much has the internet changed the art world?” BBC Culture. March 26th, 2014. / https://www.bbc.com/culture/article/20140326-how-has-the-internet-changed-art

[2] Gens, Mark. “A Critical Analysis of Art in the Post-Internet Era” Gnovis Journal. May 2, 2017. / https://www.gnovisjournal.org

[3] “Frieze Editors Debate the Artist of the Decade/Frieze”. Frieze, December 13,  2019 / https://www.frieze.com/article/frieze-editors-debate-artist-decade

[4] “Jon Rafman: I have ten thousand compound eyes and each is named suffering”, Museum of modern and contemporary art and design STEDELIJK, 2016 / https://www.stedelijk.nl/en/exhibitions/jonrafman

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