Born 1971 in Xi'an, China | Based in Paris & Beijing
An XiaoTong’s practice spans a diverse array of techniques, including traditional Chinese painting, installation, collage, embroidery, conceptual dance, and jewelry design. Her work draws heavily from traditional painting elements, particularly ink and rice paper, to create imagery that evokes an idealized utopia, post-disaster ruins, or the layered landscapes of a fading illusion. By selecting and layering paper with varying ink shades, she constructs complex collages that employ the traditional Chinese *shanshui* (山水) painting technique. This method imbues her work with a sense of tranquility, inviting viewers into introspection and fostering a deeper awareness of the surrounding space.
At the same time, An XiaoTong deliberately avoids overtly conceptual references, resulting in serene and minimalist landscapes. Her works balance simplicity with depth, offering an immersive experience rather than a rigid narrative.
Before 2001, XiaoTong primarily focused on traditional Chinese painting techniques, but over time, she felt constrained by a purely “material” approach. She found her work lacked the vital connection between mind and spirit that defines true artistic expression. After years of introspection, she made the bold decision to reinvent her practice, abandoning the technical rigidity of her earlier works in favor of new mediums and a more fluid artistic language.
In her most recent exhibition at Migrant Bird Space, XiaoTong explored the memories and experiences of Berlin. Using embroidery as a key medium, she intricately wove these memories together into pieces resembling the scrolls of ancient Chinese scholars. This innovative approach exemplifies her ability to bridge tradition with contemporary sensibilities, creating works that resonate across cultures and time periods.
For more information about her works.
