Yufei L.

Artist's statement

Modern collectivist society suppresses individual identity through rigid social norms, contributing to the widespread anxiety seen in East Asia. I use tropical plants placed in temperate zones as a symbol of non-mainstream groups, those who challenge stereotypes and resist homogenisation. This work critiques the emergence of uniform societal expectations while advocating for greater inclusion and diversity.

Stereotypes in human society parallel those in the natural world, particularly in how we perceive plants. When thinking of plants, “green” often comes to mind first. Green foliage is a defining feature of the natural environment, yet this perception causes society to overlook non-green plant species, treating them as anomalies rather than part of the broader ecological system. Similarly, in human society, individuals who belong to the majority tend to feel more confident, while those who do not conform to mainstream norms often struggle with self-expression.

Unlike humans, plants have no inherent gender identity, yet we assign symbolic meanings: grass as masculine, flowers as feminine. Through diverse colours and leaf forms, my work challenges these norms, advocating for greater inclusivity. Fortunately, younger generations are increasingly rejecting societal constraints in favour of personal expression.