Peicen Jiang
2024 Luminarts Fellow in Fashion

In my artistic practice, I explore the complex and psychotic pressure of rigid societal anxiety and how these forces manifest in the distorted and deformed female body as a site of violence. Drawing inspiration from historical garments, I take on historical research and textile making, distorting and rearranging the image of historical corsets and crinolines. Employing a diverse range of materials, including leather, wool, and organza, I craft exaggerated silhouettes adorned with embellishments that mimic the visceral textures of reality. My work often blurs the boundary between fashion and sculpture, as the silhouettes are displayed in tandem with meat hooks and other sculptural elements, creating a jarring juxtaposition of beauty and brutality. I challenge viewers to interrogate their perceptions and assumptions surrounding femininity and power dynamics. Ultimately, my art serves as a visceral commentary on the darker aspects of the human experience, urging viewers to confront uncomfortable truths and engage in deeper conversations about societal norms and gendered violence.