In the dynamic realm of contemporary Chinese art, Youada emerges as a distinctive figure with roots deeply embedded in the pioneering graffiti movement that swept through the nation during his teenage years. The 1990s saw a huge wave of graffiti culture giving rise to the start of street art in the busy cities of China. It was during this transformative period that Youada found his artistic voice, joining a movement that would serve as a form of rebellion against the societal challenges triggered by rapid urbanization and the influence of political propaganda.
His work resonates with the echoes of a generation grappling with the complexities of a rapidly changing landscape, where the visual language of rebellion found a potentially in his creative endeavors.
For Youada, this narrative holds a profound significance, as he remains committed to the ethos of breaking boundaries through his art. What sets him apart is not just his skill with a paintbrush, but his seamless transition from the raw energy of the streets to the controlled confines of the studio.
In the tapestry of Youada’s artistic journey, his signature style emerges as a dynamic blend of acrylic mastery and airbrush finesse, crafting a hyper-contemporary aesthetic that defines his body of work. Throughout his career, Youada has perfected this unique style, making it a signature of his artistic identity.
At the heart of Youada’s canvas narratives are meme-like subjects, each infused with a rebellious undertone that speaks volumes about societal norms and cultural shifts. One recurring theme in his art is the portrayal of liberated women, unabashedly smoking and drinking, inviting viewers to confront and question regressive gender norms prevalent in Chinese society. Youada’s brushstrokes serve as a powerful commentary, challenging perceptions and advocating for a more inclusive and progressive outlook.
Beyond the human form, Youada extends his artistic gaze to the natural world, presenting depictions of animals on steroids. This intriguing choice sparks contemplation about humanity’s often exploitative treatment of nature, provoking viewers to reflect on their relationship with the environment.
The artist’s exploration of contemporary culture extends further into the realm of technology and social media. Youada’s portraits and selfies serve as a stark mirror reflecting the harsh realities of Instagram culture. Through his eyes, viewers are offered a poignant perspective on the sometimes superficial and relentless pursuit of validation and identity in the digital age.
Youada’s artistic repertoire goes beyond the mere act of creation; it becomes a dialogue between the artist and the viewer about the complexities of gender, nature, and society.
Youada’s subjects exclusively spring from his memories with many of them being cartoon characters he recalls from childhood TV shows. These figures frequently undergo a transformation, sometimes evolving into bizarre characters unmistakably shaped by an awareness of adult realities.
Youada’s artworks stand out as genuinely distinctive, urging viewers to reassess the core of artistic worth. Is it discovered in traditional beauty, or does it lie in the deep expression and purpose woven into his unconventional and thought-provoking creations?
Youada
Born in 1987 in Fujian, China.
Currently lives and works in Hangzhou, China.
21.11.2023
At the core of Youada’s artistic approach lies a deep connection to the materials and aesthetics intrinsic to street art. Infusing his canvases with bold subjects, vibrant hues, and an expressive airbrush technique, he prompts viewers to embark on a journey of introspection, challenging spectators to reconsider and redefine their perspectives on aesthetic allure in the tapestry of our everyday lives.
Youada’s work has been exhibited at renowned art institutions around the globe, including at One Way Gallery in Beijing (2018), Swim Gallery in Los Angeles (2019), Tong Gallery in Beijing (2019), Ota Fine Arts in Shanghai (2019), K11 Select in Wuhan (2019), Unit London (2020) and X Museum in Beijing (2020).
Follow Youada’s work on his Instagram.