Yin Li
Li Yin's poignant series draws inspiration from the Yinchang Valley of his childhood—a site of joy and camaraderie now lost in the aftermath of the 2008 Sichuan earthquake. His work acts as a bridge to the past, capturing the ephemeral nature of memory and the universal longing for a return to simpler times. Portraying mainly the backside of the figures and removing facial expressions, his sweeping landscape imposes distance to the far away memories, reducing the idea of individuality to the ocean of shared emotions of loss and nostalgia.
Li Yin draws upon memories of his childhood home lost in the 2008 Sichuan earthquake, in a personal attempt to return to a time of innocence.
Studied under Zhou Chunya, Li Yin (b. 1982, Chengdu, C h i n a ) melds expressionism with traditional Chinese aesthetics, his brushwork casting nature and human figures with effortless dynamism. Acclaimed for conveying complex emotions through simple strokes, Li captures the spiritual dissonance in modern life. His works, rich in literati spirit and vivid hues, reflect a world where individual essence fades into societal currents, and the pursuit of transient desires leaves indelible scars on the soul.
Li currently works and resides in Chengdu, China. He received a BFA from Sichuan Fine Art Institute in 2005, and his solo exhibitions include Yima Gallery (2021); Soka Art Centre (2011); Gallery Beijing Space (2010; 2008; 2007). His work has been exhibited in numerous group exhibitions, including at Long Museum, A Thousand Plateaus Art Space, Blue Top Art Gallery, and He Xiang Ning Art Museum, among others. He’s been featured in publications including the Hi Art, Artron Net, Art Link Art, and People’s Daily.
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