Collaboration, to me, is the idea that one plus one can be greater than two. It is the exchange of ideas, skills, and perspectives, where individuals come together to create something greater than what could be achieved alone. In my artistic practice, collaboration is not just a method but a philosophy—it embodies mutual respect, openness, and shared exploration of new possibilities. Whether working with other artists, communities, or across disciplines, collaboration enables me to grow, learn, and create in ways that reflect the interconnectedness of our world.

What draws me to work within a collective or collaborative environment is the opportunity for shared growth and the exchange of diverse perspectives. I believe, collaboration fosters a stage where ideas can expand beyond my own, creating something more dynamic and layered than what could be achieved alone. It’s in these environments that I find new insights that challenge and enhance my own practice.

However, while collaboration offers the chance to explore different viewpoints, working alone allows for deeper reflection and focus. After my emotional transformation during the isolation in Beijing in 2022, I realized that sometimes the most important work comes from turning inward. Working alone gives me the space to reflect on my own experiences and develop my ideas in a more personal, intimate way. Ultimately, both environments offer different forms of creative aspects.

The most transformative moment in my artistic journey occurred in the spring of 2022 when I was in Beijing. The circumstances at that time deeply impacted me and triggered an emotional transformation. While many of my friends abroad had resumed their normal lives, I found myself isolated in my apartment, enduring COVID tests every 72 hours for the third consecutive year. This isolation forced me to confront the fragility of life. I turned my focus to the idea of healing, treating it as a daily, almost like a religious routine. It became clear to me that when we cannot seek healing externally, we must turn inward. Without impacting others, I chose to return to painting as a way to heal both mentally and emotionally.

Since then, I’ve been exploring the theme of 'healing.' This period helped me realize that art has a profound therapeutic power, one that helped me navigate through this challenging time. I believe it can offer the same comfort and transformation to others.