Xuelian Wu

Wu Xuelian graduated from the Central Academy of Fine Arts and is a prominent contemporary young artist in China. She is known for her focus on simplicity in both form and material, often employing a restrained visual language centered on minimal contours and gestures. Whether portraying human figures or seemingly lifeless objects, her imagery consistently carries an understated yet captivating presence. Wu believes these simple forms hold an inner depth—something concealed beneath the surface. In them, she sees reflections of herself, or perhaps unconsciously, her thoughts have already merged into the subjects.

In Wu’s artistic practice, various painting materials serve as bridges between herself and the images she creates. Whether working with ink, silver foil, or other pigments, each medium offers its own aesthetic character and emotional resonance. She embraces the mutable nature of materials—how their meaning and expression shift based on the artist’s touch and intent. Wu delights in discovering subtle distinctions and transformations within seemingly simple forms, creating works that are modest in appearance yet profound in meaning. Each stroke and tone is deliberately chosen, resulting in a raw yet poetic aesthetic.

Through her work, viewers are invited to perceive the richness that lies within simplicity, uncovering personal reflections and emotional responses. Wu Xuelian uses restrained forms and humble materials to build a quiet bridge to the inner self—offering not only a visual experience but also a contemplative journey into the essence of life and emotion.

Exhibitions

2004

National Youth Chinese Painting Annual Exhibition, Beijing
The 10th National Art Exhibition, Beijing
The 2nd Chengdu Biennale "Newcomer Special Exhibition", Chengdu

2005

"Very Integration" 2005 Contemporary Gongbi Painting Invitational Exhibition, Shenzhen

2007

The 70s Generation Ink Desire Exhibition, Wuhan

2008

"Ink Extension" Works Exhibition, Macau
"Cross-border" Seven People Ink Exhibition, Beijing

2009

"Four Doors Array" Contemporary Ink Theme Exhibition, Beijing
"Connecting with Heart" – Central Academy of Fine Arts Hu Wei Studio Works Exhibition, Beijing
"Powder Ink" Contemporary Female Ink Painting Exhibition, Shanghai
Body Language, Beijing
Ink Charm, Beijing
Paper Drawing Salon Exhibition, Paris

2010

Leading – China Contemporary Ink Invitational Exhibition, Shenzhen
Paper Drawing Salon Exhibition, Paris

2011

Sino-French Artists Association Art Center Dual Exhibition Oxymore, Strasbourg
Tranquil Games, Beijing
Art Beijing 2011 • Classic Art Fair, Beijing
Youth Art 100, Beijing
Looking Back at China – Comprehensive Art Exhibition Commemorating the 100th Anniversary of the Xinhai Revolution, Beijing
"Visual China" Asian Tour – China New Ink Tokyo Special Exhibition, Tokyo
Youth Art 100, Shanghai
The 4th National Youth Art Exhibition, Beijing

2012