Wang You (b.1988, Harbin) grows up in Shenzhen and currently lives and works in Beijing. She graduated from the Directing Department of the Shanghai Theatre Academy in 2009.

Her works are distinguished by bold use of color and a wide array of expressive techniques, seamlessly blending abstraction with figuration. Drawing much of her inspiration from daily life, Wang skillfully incorporates real-world figures and scenes into imaginative compositions. By juxtaposing elements from different times and spaces, she creates a unique visual universe between reality and fantasy. Her approach is reminiscent of cinematic montage, continuously offering viewers new visual discoveries.

Wang’s work delves into the exploration of complex emotions and the human psyche. Her focus on themes such as desire, anxiety, and vulnerability reflects the emotional tensions present in both individuals and collectives within contemporary society. She captures not only facial expressions and physical gestures but also the intricate emotional conflicts beneath the surface. Having trained as a ballet dancer, Wang often portrays dancers in their “off-stage” moments, aiming to capture their fragility and strength beyond the spotlight, deepening her exploration of human instincts and collective emotions.

Her compositions frequently exhibit a multi-layered, seemingly chaotic narrative structure, allowing viewers to discover interwoven emotions and the subtle, hidden stories within different artwork elements. This dramatic and theatrical approach enhances the visual impact of her paintings, while simultaneously inviting viewers to engage with the work on a deeper emotional and intellectual level.

Recent exhibitions include: Unnatural Relaxation, Tang Contemporary Art, Hong Kong, China(2024); Coexist, Nanjo Art Museum, Okinawa, Japan(2024); Seaward: The 2nd TAG-New Contemporary, TAG Art Museum, Shandong(2023); Kong-Fu: Form and Meaning, Yuan Art Museum, Beijing(2023); The Rite of Spring, MASSIMODECARLO, Beijing (2023); Feasting with Hemingway, TANKO CB Lab, Beijing (2023); International Young Artist Invitation Exhibition: Inquiry to the wall, Tang Contemporary Art, Beijing (2023); Blooming in Spring, Bvlgari Hotel Space, Beijing (2023); Sensation of Touch: The Irreplaceability of Painting, Yongle Art Space, Beijing (2022); Everyone Comes for the Donut, WishinART, Beijing (2022); Feelings on Paper, MASSIMODECARLO VSPACE (2021).