Chen Gelin, born in 1996 in Yulin, Guangxi, is a contemporary artist dedicated to exploring the use of linear fiber materials in artistic expression. He graduated from the Oil Painting Department of the Central Academy of Fine Arts (CAFA) in 2023, where his graduation work, "Convergence and Divergence," was permanently collected by the CAFA Art Museum. Chen's creations are deeply influenced by the culture and traditional crafts of Chinese ethnic minorities, particularly the weaving techniques of the Hakka people, the brocade patterns of the Zhuang ethnic group, and the principles of screen printing. In his works, Chen Gelin uses steel nails as points and nylon as lines, constructing unique visual and spatial effects through the use of composite fiber materials. His creations not only skillfully incorporate traditional textile techniques but also showcase the diversity and unique characteristics of fiber materials, reflecting the artist's deep contemplation on formal order, light, speed, and a sense of futurism. Chen Gelin's artistic achievements have been widely recognized, with several prestigious awards to his name, including the National Inspirational Scholarship in 2021 and 2022, as well as the Youth Art 100 Annual 101 Art Award in 2023. He was also invited to participate in the "TWT International Art Residency Program" in 2023. His works have been featured in numerous significant exhibitions, including the "CAFA Tide · Flourishing Growth" exhibition, the "Fiction and Reshaping" Contemporary Art Exhibition at the Jiangxi Provincial Art Museum, and the "Diversity II: Young Artists Group Exhibition" at Su Gallery in Beijing.
We pay our respects to the Gundungurra people who are the traditional custodians of the land. We acknowledge Elders past, present and emerging for their immense spiritual connection to place which was never ceded.