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red art club
Radical 38
2024
Print and Spray Paint on Fabric
£88
"Radical 38" explores language as both cultural artifact and enforcer of bias. This artwork critically examines Chinese characters containing the “female radical” (女) - the 38th radical which is a semantic component of the Chinese writing system that categorises words associated with femininity. Certain words in the category like “妒” (envy), “奴” (slave) and “奸” (evil), reflect and perpetuate negative stereotypes about women in Chinese-speaking communities.
Using printed banners and spray paint, mediums often associated with activism, the artwork layers re-imagined female radical characters beneath painted surfaces, subverting traditional meanings. New words, created by combining the female radical with characters like “力” (strength), offer empowering representations that challenge linguistic bias.
As a Chinese woman who has lived in English-speaking countries for a decade, Zoe understands how language shapes perceptions from both an insider and outsider perspective. Through painted layers and tactile experiences, "Radical 38" invites viewers to confront these biases, re-evaluate cultural assumptions, and imagine a language that better reflects the strength of Chinese women.
YU ZOE CUI
Yu Zoe Cui is a London-based artist and designer from Northeast China, practicing for over four years in creating work that bridges cross-cultural communication through design and language. Her creative practice is deeply rooted in East and Southeast Asian culture, utilising elements of language and visual storytelling to explore themes of identity, heritage, and community. Zoe is passionate about activism through design and seeks to create work that not only expresses cultural narratives but also advocates for diverse voices and stories often overlooked.
Zoe’s work spans various mediums, with a strong focus on digital design, printmaking, and alternative publishing. She frequently experiments with formats that go beyond traditional ink and paper. Zoe’s projects often involve textual exploration, considering how words and typography shape perceptions and foster understanding across linguistic and cultural barriers.
Over the years, Zoe has refined a design approach that intertwines personal and collective stories, finding inspiration in the ways design can be a platform for cultural dialogue. With each piece, she aims to make connections between her heritage and the global community, blending aesthetic insight with an activist spirit that reflects her unique background and artistic vision.
Follow Zoe on instagram - @zozomoloko
To purchase this artwork please email zoecuiyu@gmail.com
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