Xu, Vivi

I am Vivi, an artist who focuses on observing and reflecting on social phenomena through oil-based printmaking and painting. My work explores themes of loneliness, alienation, and self-discipline in our performance-oriented society. By delving into these themes, I investigate the intricate relationship between individuals and societal progress, emphasizing the psychological and emotional impacts of modern life. I also aim to comprehend how people find meaning in their lives within oppressive social systems and analyze the evolving interaction between individuals and their social environments. One of my notable works is the series “Lone- ly Tokyo Night,” which portrays moments of loneliness and fatigue in the bustling city at night, showcasing the contrast between the vibrant urban setting and the inner isolation experienced by its inhabitants. 

Biography 

Jiawei Xu, also known as Vivi, is a contemporary painter and printmaker born in 2000 in Qingdao, China, currently based in Tokyo, Japan. Specializing in oil painting on can- vas and woodblock printmaking, Xu is recognized for using concrete expressions to portray social environments, offering a nuanced view of contemporary life. Xu’s work explores the connections between people, society, and nature through various media, focusing on themes of urban isolation and personal identity. The series “Lonely Tokyo Night,” a significant part of Xu’s portfolio, uses multicolor wood- block prints to examine solitude in busy cityscapes, emphasizing the emotional landscapes of urban residents. Xu’s art aims to communicate emotions, seek beauty, and reflect on reality through a contemplative process.