Xian Eley

Artist Statement

My work is representational, leaning toward surrealism. The intersection of nature and architecture is at the core of my work. Elements of nature, when studied, can have very precise structured forms, while architecture can be surprisingly organic. I enjoy artistically exploring their juxtaposition, creating unexpected imagery. My preferred medium is oil painting, which allows me to present both precision and abstraction harmoniously. I find inspiration by reimagining a subject in an altered state. 

In my piece “Come together” the city is shown from above and below simultaneously; a birds-eye view is intersected by the crosswalk asphalt. The often depicted vertical city is foreshortened and unified through geometric harmony and an exaggerated color palette. Similarly to New York City itself there is order created from chaos; in a city inhabited by millions of unique individuals those in proximity to each other will form communities and bonds. 

The painting “Abbey Road” pays homage to the famous album cover; however, in lieu of the Fab Four I have depicted the unofficial mascot of New York City. Although much of the imagery remains unchanged there is an emphasis on the surreal and whimsical in this piece depicting pigeons crossing the road. It is my belief that part of the purpose of art should be to bring levity to this ever changing and unpredictable world.