Patchouli. Exhibition by Jieyu Zheng
Jieyu Zheng, Zhejiang, China, 1997. Lives and works in Florence. Her artistic career focuses on the interaction between memory and painting, exploring the dissolution of barriers between dream and reality over time. Dominated by the color black, which symbolizes her existence, her work interrupts the darkness with points of light, representing moments of return to reality.
After moving to Europe, Zheng seeks a new identity in a foreign society. The omnipresent black color becomes an emotional vehicle, inspiring the depiction of new conquests through bright points of light. Memory takes her back to the nights of Wenzhou, tied to the persistent smell of patchouli, a symbol of identity and roots.
Observing everyday life, Zheng detaches from society to better understand herself, experiencing a sense of estrangement in each place. Trying to illuminate the darkness, her palette incorporates lighter tones, representing awakening through flashes of light in the darkness. Despite the lack of belonging, waiting and memories keep her tied. Zheng offers an intimate look at her exploration of society and identity, inviting the audience to immerse themselves in an artistic journey rich in symbolism and introspection.