Yanzi Zhang reviewed by CAFA:Exploring women and the world beyond identity
October 30, 2024
Author by: Xianglong Li
Artist Yanzi Zhang
Today, gender equality is widely accepted as a social norm, yet women’s issues often prompt debate around feminism as a “temporary movement” aimed at correcting social inequality. Some argue that once these goals are met, feminism will naturally fade. By this view, artist Yanzi Zhang may not be labeled as a “feminist artist.” However, her work, “Her 24 Solar Terms”, uniquely explores women’s issues from a distinctly embodied female perspective, setting her apart from typical identity politics. Zhang’s approach centers on the female body—not as an abstract concept or political tool, but as a source of energy and emotion. Ignoring the unique qualities of the female body in her work risks overlooking the profound potential within it. Zhang invites us to consider women beyond traditional feminist discourse by emphasizing the physical, lived experience.