Naiwen Chou

During my residency at Saari, I plan to develop my ongoing project that explores the anxiety and pressure surrounding age and identity transitions in Asian cultures, which emphasize societal expectations for individuals to achieve certain milestones by specific ages. This exploration leads me to investigate the cultural and symbolic significance of “face” as both a social and personal construct. By examining the metaphorical link between “face” as social reputation (exemplified in the phrase “losing face”) and the literal human visage, my work highlights the pressures of maintaining both social status and physical appearance.

At the residency, I’m looking forward to immersing myself in the creative process, placing myself in a different cultural and environmental context, embracing a slower pace, connecting with nature, and not rushing toward a final outcome.

Naiwen Chou (b. 1994, Taipei, Taiwan)
Based in Zurich, Taiwanese artist Naiwen Chou explores memory, identity, and perception through sculpture, installation, and performance art. Her artistic journey spans various countries in Asia and Europe, enriching her work with diverse cultural encounters. By drawing on personal memories and experiences, Naiwen’s art delves into the complexities of identity. By turning these (personal) narratives into visual forms, she fosters introspection and collective dialogue on identity and collective individuality, while questioning conventional notions of space and societal roles. Through this exploration, her work invites discussions on navigating identity in an ever-changing world.