Jun Yan

Artist Statement

As a practicing Buddhist, my artistic journey is deeply rooted in the exploration of spiritual realms that transcend surface appearances. Inspired by the teachings of my tradition, I aim to channel a sense of inner strength and tranquility into my works.

Working with clay and metal, I draw upon the symbolic qualities of these materials. Clay, with its fragility and vulnerability, reflects the impermanence of the physical form and the inevitable passage of time. In contrast, metal, with its strength and durability, represents the enduring nature of the inner self—a profound, eternal essence.

My goal is to capture the fundamental forms of life by harmoniously combining these contrasting elements, reflecting the composite nature of living beings—flesh, bones, fluids, and air. Through the interplay of these earthly materials in my sculptures, I’m building a connection to nature and the cycles of life, emphasizing that we are an integral part of it.