Joram Ruoran Chen explores the complexities of interpersonal relationships socially and personally. She uses a variety of mediums, including printmaking, installation, performance, and ceramics, to express her views. Following a path of pluralism, the artist incorporates her personal experiences to probe into the layered nature of identity.
Golden Apples, 2024, Plywood, wood stain, ceramic, and butter board Base: 72 x 72 in. Size variable
Golden Apples and Marriage EXPO draws upon the phenomenon of 门当户对 (Men dang Hu dui). This term can be translated to Well-matched. In the past, it usually referred to the marriage contract in which an alignment of economic power, governmental position, and educational background was made, thus social status took precedent over individual emotions. Today Men dang Hu dui is manifested across various aspects of life, not just in regard to marriage. However, rather than matching traits, an exchange of resources is at play: the relative value of one factor can surpass the deficits of other factors. Desire, passion, joy, greed, people are propelled to be forward. Surrender to the currents of the time. Or seek a return to Eden's innocence.
Golden Apples, detail, Plywood, wood stain, ceramic, and butter board Base: 72 x 72 in. Size variable
Marriage EXPO, 2024, Butter board, spray paint, and plywood Framed: 59 ½ x 59 ½ in.
Balance, 2021, Balance Scale; Cord; DC Project Motor Generator; Wood Pointer; Alarm Clock Kits (Clock Mechanism; Clock Case); size variation
********, 2021, Projector, cement powder; A4 paper, sharpie, flash light; Performance