The artist statement discusses the artist's goals of using art to communicate meaningful messages to various groups and help bridge misunderstandings. The artist is inspired by Shepard Fairey's ability to combine art and fashion to spread ideas, and Lawrence Weiner's conceptual works that leave interpretation open to viewers. The artist also draws inspiration from song lyrics and interests in music and fashion, hoping to combine art with interactive, accessible forms like clothing to spread relatable messages.

1. ARTIST STATEMENT
As a developing artist I have a few goals in mind. One of them is somewhat cliché: to be able to send a message through my
art. I would like to be able to influence a number of people, and to be able to communicate effectively to various
demographics of people. With the lack of communication that is running rampant these days, usually resulting in conflict and
hurt feelings, I would like my art to act as the bridge over a river of misconceptions. Along my artistic journey, I want to
further explore the subject of trends; I want to know what makes ideas images rise to popularity among specific audiences.
There are two artists whose work has inspired me. Shepard Fairey is an American contemporary street artist,
graphic designer, activist, illustrator, and founder of OBEY Clothing. While studying at the Rhode Island School of Design,
Fairey created the “André the Giant Has a Posse” sticker campaign. It has since evolved into the “Obey the Giant” campaign
and has grown greatly. Fairey was able to combine fashion and art, successfully creating a trend that carries a message of
curiosity and skepticism throughout society. Lawrence Weiner is an impactful figure in conceptual art; his work usually takes
the form of typographic wall texts. Weiner was able to create ambiguity with his art, arousing confusion about whether the
artwork was the gesture or the statement. Weiner created pieces equal and consistent with his own intent, but let viewers
interpret the reason as to why a certain statement would be made.
My interest in music as well as in fashion have influenced my development as an artist. I like songs with not only a
catchy beat, but also interesting or meaningful lyrics. For example, in my art piece “Not the Same”, I took my inspiration from
Ruth B’s song “Lost Boy”. The chorus of the song is what really caught my attention; it sends a message relatable not only to
myself, but to others as well—it’s a message for all. My interest in fashion has likewise impacted my goals as an artist. Fashion
led me to research into the topic of trends, specifically clothing trends. Fashion has made me want to combine art with
fashion to create a wearable statement—to make art that’s more interactive. Not having to be confined to a white wall in a
gallery, but instead being able to create via a more accessible outlet.
Claire Hsiao
49 Crescent Lane
Roslyn Heights, NY 11577
516-695-9713 or chsiao143@gmail.com

2. STRAWTTLES
Acrylic paint
on
18 x 24 canvas

3. MAN-MADE
Water color, black ink, salt
on
21.5 x 29 Paper

4. NOT THE SAME
Mixed media
on
36 x 24 canvas

5. LACED
Mixed media
on
12 x 24 x 2 wood panel

6. FLY HIGH
Product and
packaging
design

7. BRAND VENDING
Mixed media
10.5 x 6.5 x 2.7

8. CHARCOAL STILL LIFE
Charcoal
on
18 x 24 paper

9. JEAN SHORTS
Pencil
on
8 x 12 paper

10. CONFINES OF A MIND
Mixed media

11. THREAD
Graphic design

12. CITY SCENERY
Pencil, pen, colored pencil
on
8 x 12 paper

13. FIGURE DRAWING
Colored pencil
on
18 x 24 paper