Zadie Xa: Melding Folklore and Futurism in a Multifaceted Artistic Odyssey
Zadie Xa: Melding Folklore and Futurism in a Multifaceted Artistic Odyssey
- Zadie Xa’s Fusion: London-based artist Zadie Xa blends science fiction and heritage in performances, textiles, and more, showcased in her Seoul exhibition.
- Dual Studios: Xa operates in two distinct studios for diverse mediums, with textiles reflecting her personality and a minimalist painting haven.
- Daily Process: Daily routines, immersive soundscapes, and unique artifacts contribute to Xa’s creative journey.
ondon-based artist Zadie Xa intricately weaves science fiction, folklore, and cultural influences from her Korean-Canadian heritage into her captivating art forms. Embracing performance, textiles, sculptures, and paintings, Xa presents a distinctive artistic perspective that bridges the gap between ancient traditions and contemporary aesthetics. Her current exhibition, 'Nine Tailed Tall Tales: Trickster, Mongrel, Beast,' hosted at Seoul's Space K until October 12th, offers a mesmerizing journey into the fantastical realm of her creations, replete with mythical creatures such as the enigmatic nine-tailed fox, prominent in East Asian mythologies.
Creative Spaces and Atmospheres
With an unwavering commitment to her craft, Xa operates from two distinct studios – one located in Bromley-by-Bow and the other on Stratford High Street. Her multi-faceted approach, spanning textiles, painting, and sculpture, necessitates separate spaces, where she meticulously orchestrates her creative symphony. The textile studio is an embodiment of her personality, adorned with knick-knacks, masks from Korea, and personal artifacts. In contrast, her pristine painting studio, graced by ample sunlight, maintains minimalism to facilitate her artistic focus.
Daily Rituals and Inspirations
Xa’s creative process is marked by a daily ritual that commences with a morning walk with her dog, followed by immersion in her studio. Yet, her journey into creativity often begins with moments of preparation – cleaning, savoring tea, and absorbing music. Working intensely during project production phases, she acknowledges the need for intermittent breaks to rejuvenate. Her burgeoning reputation has led her to illustrious venues, including her ongoing show at Space K and a forthcoming exhibition at Thaddaeus Ropac in Paris.
Nurturing and Challenges
While her studios offer sanctuaries for creativity, Xa wrestles with ventilation issues and security concerns, an inherent part of her industrial surroundings. Despite these challenges, her dedication prevails, driven by a deep-rooted commitment to her craft.
Immersive Soundscapes and Literary Influences
Xa’s creative domain resonates with podcasts and audiobooks, rather than music. Engaging with NPR and documentaries, she immerses herself in a tapestry of global narratives and political events, enriching her artistic perspective.
Intriguing Artifacts and Reverence
Within her sanctuary, an unexpected presence lingers – the ashes of her beloved dog, Chicho. This cherished companion serves as a guardian and a poignant reminder of their shared journey.
Inspiring Literature and Academic Exploration
Xa’s shelves are graced by ‘The Mago Way: Re-discovering Mago, the Great Goddess from East Asia’ by Dr. Helen Hye-Sook Hwang. This book illuminates the transformation of a once-forgotten female deity, offering profound insights into her creative evolution.
An Intimate Creative Sanctuary
While Xa’s studio is a private realm, welcoming only close collaborators, her art radiates across the world, bridging ancient mythologies and contemporary sensibilities. ‘Nine Tailed Tall Tales: Trickster, Mongrel, Beast’ beckons visitors to venture into her enigmatic universe at Space K, a testament to her boundless artistic journey.
