Born in China, Yuhan Wu studied photography from 2014, then relocated as a visual artist in London. Her work explores philosophy, social environment issues, and the narratives of marginalized communities, using diverse cultural background to challenge perceptions and evoke deep emotional responses. Her art has been featured in many exhibitions.
Born: China
Now: London, United Kingdom
@yuhanwuphoto | wuyuhan.cargo.site
INTERVIEW
You began your journey with an education in communications and later added an art direction. Do you think this combination of knowledge created the necessary synergy to strengthen your creativity?
My art primary focus has always been photography, but studying at a renowned communication university deeply influenced my work. The exposure to communication studies helped me develop a strong understanding of societal issues, which became a central theme in my early photography practice.
This combination of photography and communication knowledge has indeed created a synergy that enhances my ability to convey powerful narratives through visual art.
Yuhan, please tell our readers about the theme you’re working on in your art. Why did you decide to address the issue of environmental and social injustice?
My work often delves into themes like environmental and social injustice because I believe art has the power to highlight issues that are often overlooked or forgotten. Growing up in a culturally rich environment and being exposed to diverse experiences, I’ve developed a unique perspective that I bring to my art. I aim to challenge perceptions and evoke deep emotional responses by capturing the raw beauty and stark realities of life. Through my lens, I want to encourage viewers to reflect on their own perceptions and the world around them, sparking conversations about the injustices that persist in society.
Your work is actively represented not only in London but also on the global stage. Could you tell us about the most significant event where you were featured as an artist?
The most significant event where I was featured as an artist was my solo photography exhibition at the Guangzhou Art Museum. This exhibition marked a major milestone in my artistic journey. In this project, I introduced the concept of synesthesia, skillfully blending the relationship between autistic individuals and plants, and connecting it with my earlier work, Breathless Entities. By merging themes of autism and plant life, I explored complex questions about freedom, restraint, and the interplay between internal and external worlds. This exhibition used metaphor and symbolism to address social issues, challenging traditional perceptions of autism and urging a reassessment of the true needs and inner world of this community. It was a significant moment in contemporary art, both in terms of its innovative approach and its contribution to social discourse.
You have received quite a few awards. Which one is the most meaningful to you, and why? Which work was awarded and recognized?
The most meaningful award I’ve received is the Chinese Outstanding Young Artist Award. This recognition is especially significant to me because it came early in my career, affirming my dedication to exploring complex social and philosophical themes through photography. The award was given for a series that focused on the narratives of marginalized communities in China, particularly addressing environmental and social issues. This project allowed me to highlight often-overlooked stories and reinforced my commitment to creating art that challenges perceptions and evokes deep emotional responses. Receiving this award solidified my decision to pursue fine art photography and deepened my passion for the medium. It gave me the confidence to use photography as a powerful tool to express my ideas and perspectives. Winning this accolade reaffirmed my commitment to the path of pure art photography and inspired me to explore it further with even greater dedication.
Can you share more details about your “Enigmatic Whispers” series?
The “Enigmatic Whispers” series is a personal project that reflects my long-standing connection with the autistic community, starting with a close friend I met in 2007. Autism, often misunderstood due to its social communication difficulties and repetitive behaviors, reveals a strong inner vitality and yearning for freedom that I discovered through extensive interaction and study. The inspiration is from a Japanese autistic author who described the autistic experience as “floating outside of normal time, with a deep longing to return to a water-filled ancient era of freedom.” This concept influenced my visual approach. In “Enigmatic Whispers,” I use photography to explore their inner worlds, employing soft lighting and gentle green tones to create timeless, intimate images. Through fragmented imagery, I aim to convey a sense of calm strength and invite viewers to engage with the often-overlooked narratives of this community, promoting a deeper understanding of autism’s true essence.
What advice would you give to emerging artists on how to find their voice and identity in the art world?
For emerging artists looking to find their voice and identity in the art world, my advice is to begin by exploring your own identity and personal experiences.
Choose themes that resonate deeply with you and commit to long-term, consistent creation. As you continue to produce work, allow your perspective to evolve and refine. Practice often enhances and strengthens your initial ideas.
Once you’ve created compelling work, participate in exhibitions, connect with a broader audience, and confidently promote your art. Engaging with others and sharing your work is essential in establishing your unique voice in the art world.