Women in Art: Q&A with Florence Yuqing RI

Women in Art: Q&A with Florence Yuqing RI

On the occasion of International Women’s Day on 8 March 2024, we are excited to celebrate the progress made in promoting gender equality and empowering women, with a special focus in the creative arts sector. Join us in celebrating the diverse achievements of women from all walks of life. To honour this occasion, we have curated a series of Q&A sessions featuring three exceptional artists, including both members and non-members of the Federation of British Artists (FBA).

We had the pleasure to speak with the exceptionally talented watercolor artist, Florence Yuqing RI. As the youngest member artist of the Royal Institute of Painters in Water Colours and a notable figure within the Federation of British Artists, Florence brings a unique perspective to her craft. In our conversation, Florence shared insights into her artistic journey, spanning from the technical aspects of watercolour to the profound emotions she conveys in her portrayals of human experience. 

What led you to choose watercolour as your preferred medium, and what aspects of working with watercolour do you find most appealing or enjoyable?

Choosing watercolour wasn't a deliberate decision, it's simply the medium I started with when I began painting as a kid, and it stuck with me. I feel at ease and confident using watercolour, it allows me to express myself and my creativity freely. I appreciate its translucent quality and the fact that it dries quickly, it always gets me excited to see the finished piece. Even though watercolour has been my favourite for a long time, I'm open to trying new things like oils, I'll see how it goes, but I know I'll always have a soft spot for watercolours.

Florence Yuqing RI, Ophelia, 35x26cm. BUY NOW

Your portraits mainly depict the female figure, why is this? Are there particular messages you aim to communicate through your artwork?

There isn't a specific reason why I predominantly paint female figures, but I believe it's because I feel most natural with it. When creating a portrait, I take pleasure in exploring and conveying aspects like the delicacy, fragility, and sensitivity nature in human beings, with a particular focus on the beauty of flesh. While these elements exist in both genders, I currently find that female figures offer me the most freedom to express them, even though I can't pinpoint exactly why. Nevertheless, my aspiration has always been to paint various people, including males and children, and this is a goal I hope to achieve in the near future.

Florence Yuqing RI, Still I Wander, 47x35cm. BUY NOW 

Could you elaborate on your process of creating imaginative characters for your paintings, with a focus on the inspiration behind these creations, particularly exploring the concept of 'Otherworldliness'?

In my creative process for creating imaginative characters, I begin by visualising a face in my mind and conceptualising the character's personality. Sometimes, the facial features come naturally as I sketch with a pencil, while other times, I explore faces for inspiration – this could be online, in books, magazines and such. My goal is to bring life into these imaginative characters, forging a connection between the viewer and the subject. Despite their fantastical nature, I want to infuse them with a sense of vitality. Each character tells a unique story, inviting viewers to engage in their own interpretations. This interplay between the painted character and the observer's imagination adds an intriguing layer to my artistic exploration. The play of light on a person’s face, the unique expressions they carry, and the emotions that resonate with me are the foundation for my characters. The concept of ‘Otherworldliness’ often finds its way into my art without intentionally trying to do so, but I do get this comment about my portraits a lot. I draw inspiration from the ethereal nature of emotions and the beautiful colours of the human body, aiming to capture a sense of the extraordinary within the ordinary moments depicted in my portraits.

On the occasion of International Women's Day, could you share the female artists that inspire you the most?

I’ve been really enjoying the artworks of some female artists recently. They work in different mediums, and a few I particularly like are Jennifer O’Connell-Koerzer, Andrea Kowch, Milena Guberinic, Larisa Brechun, Naomi Okubo and many more!

Andrea Kowch, Tea, 2018. Print.  RJD Gallery Romeo. 

What guidance would you offer to aspiring female artists navigating the contemporary art scene today?

The best advice I can offer is to pursue what you’re passionate about without hesitation. There’s only one way to find out, and it’s always worth giving it a try. Personally, my proudest achievement is always going after what I wanted, trying out every idea without regrets. Confidence in your work, consistent practice, and fearlessly trying out new things are very important.