Mexican artist Yahel Yan is known for painting in two distinct styles, both of which are equally meaningful to her. In this episode, Yahel discusses her passion for abstract and representational painting, and encourages artists to make work that feels authentic and aligned.

Here’s what we discuss:

1. Why Yahel is so passionate about community and uplifting fellow artists.

2. The inspiration behind Yahel’s chair paintings, a series that has developed over the course of many years.

3. What led to Yahel to pursue abstract painting in addition to working representationally, and the benefits that come with working in two different styles.

Be sure to attend the opening reception for Yahel’s solo exhibition on May 11, 2024 from 5-8pm at FIVEart Studio & Gallery in San Diego.

About Yahel -

Yahel Yan is a San Diego-based Mexican painter exploring the relationship between color and emotion. Frequently attending museums and galleries, Yan was exposed to art from an early age and always knew that she wanted to become a visual artist. She jokes she was born with a crayon in her hand. These childhood experiences of being immersed in the rich, vibrant culture of Mexico continue to impact Yan’s work today. In her abstract and representational work, she explores the relationship between color, imagination, emotion, and memory.

Yan received her undergraduate degree in graphic design from Universidad Del Nuevo Mundo. With a love for both painting and printmaking, she began her career as a professional artist in 2019. Yan has since been selected for solo and group exhibitions throughout California, including From the Masters at Ashton Gallery, Artist Alliance Biennial at Oceanside Museum of Art, and Not an Art Fair (National Show) at ShockBoxx, amongst others. Additionally, she received an award of third place of excellence from the San Diego Museum of Art’s 2022 online International Spring Exhibition and was selected to be part of Jen Tough’s Collective in 2023. Yan paints from her home as well as her studio space located at F1VE ART in Liberty Station.

Website: yahelyan.com

IG: @yahel.yan.art

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