Jialei Jiang
Visualizing Racial Trauma

Exploration

Un-commissioned | New Talent

Why did you make this work:
I created these illustrations to visually complement a book chapter on an Asian immigrant woman's experience with racial trauma. The illustrations sought to capture her visceral feelings of shame, depression, isolation, and anger. I used metaphors such as an eraser, a pond, a box, and a shattered mirror to convey the woman’s inner struggles with racist encounters.

What materials and techniques did you use?:
In the initial stage of composition, I hand-drew the characters before finalizing the illustrations and adding extra details using Adobe Photoshop. During the process, I explored a range of brushes and textures to evoke a tactile sensation.

How were your illustrations used:
These illustrations were used to build my personal portfolio.



Social Media:
instagram.com/jialei.jiang_art/

Personal Website:
jialeijiang.myportfolio.com


Currently Based:
United States of America (USA)

Biography:
Jialei Jiang, a self-taught artist, is a teaching assistant professor of writing at the University of Pittsburgh, USA. Drawing inspiration from her surroundings, she crafts illustrations that explore sociopolitical issues. Jialei particularly enjoys capturing her characters' feelings and emotions. Her vibrant artworks, infused with bold colors, aim to spark reflection and conversation.

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