How and why did you start your artistic career?

My artistic practice is closely linked to the environment in which I live. As we age and our circumstances change, so do our magnetic fields and inductions. At each stage, I encountered different guidance, and my state of mind changed as a result. Everything is in a state of change, and only by seeing through the essence of things can we maintain inner peace and integrate this awareness into our creations.

For me, art is an instinctive reaction. At first, my work was full of passion, but after continuous self-nirvana and combing, my work gradually formed a new expression. I hope to show the impermanence of the world through my work, and to express my understanding of the origin of the world. By touching the collective subconscious, I hope to resonate with the audience on a deeper level.

How did you discover your medium and why did you choose it?

I choose oil paint as my medium primarily due to its high malleability and expressive potential. The layered texture and fluidity of oil paints allow me to convey more complex emotions and thoughts through delicate brushstrokes and rich color transitions. What particularly draws me to oil painting is its ability to render light and shadow in a way that evokes a sense of “flowers in a mirror, moon in the water,” a Zen-like aesthetic. This interplay between the real and the illusory is exactly the atmosphere I seek to create in my work.

Can you talk about your creative process? How is your work born? How long you take? When do you know it’s over?

My creative process is first guided by my current state of mind, aligning with the natural flow within. Nature plays a vital role in my work. By observing the shifts in the natural world, I can sense the energy of the universe and resonate with it. The Taoist concept of “harmony between heaven and humanity” reminds me that humans and nature are intrinsically connected, and it is in this harmony that I find the foundation for my art.

In addition, I draw inspiration from Taoism’s principle of “wu wei” (non-action), seeking a state of effortless creation where my work flows naturally. Combined with Buddhist wisdom, this allows me to maintain inner calm and balance, entering a creative state where things unfold in their own time.

The average time it takes me to complete a piece is about one to two months. During the process, I look for that moment when “enough is enough.” When I feel that adding even one more brushstroke would disrupt the harmony, I stop. This sense of “knowing when to stop” aligns with Taoist philosophy, reaching the point of balance I envision for each work.

Who are your favorite artists? Which ones are you inspired by?

I admire many artists whose works deeply interest and inspire me. Among them, I particularly appreciate the works of Lianzhang and Mariko Mori. Their artistic styles and philosophies have influenced me and provided me with inspiration. Through their art, they convey ideas and emotions that have helped me discover new ways and possibilities to express myself in my own creations.

THE ARTIST

Name: Jingyan Ding
Residence: Milan
Occupation: Painter
Social: https://www.instagram.com/tin_zinjiim/

FEATURED WORKS