Yujie Fan
About
Yujie is an image creator who resides and works in Chengdu, Shanghai, and London. Her work primarily uses photographic expressions and employs a multidisciplinary approach to the creation process, of which objects and sculptural expressions are an integral part.
<Ownership>
Yujie enjoys strolling through cities, exploring the tension and order of space through photography and sculpture. Her project, <Ownership>, consists of two parts: one part is shot in her hometown in China, and the other in London. It explores the challenges posed by the privatization of public spaces through human intervention to urban space rights. The different behaviors and reactions in these two distinct countries and social systems are fascinating. This cross-national observation and reflection aim to draw attention to the diversity and impact of public space privatization.
During her photography MA studies at RCA, Yujie came to the populous and culturally diverse city of London and observed its maturity and completeness. In this environment, she began to focus on behaviors that disrupt conventional order, particularly the privatization and enclosure of public spaces. While walking the streets of London, she noticed many abandoned bicycle locks, which led her to ponder the symbolic significance of locks—they represent privatization and enclosure, yet often appear in public spaces. This privatization behavior led her to continually reflect on changes in urban public spaces.
In cities, public and private domains are often delineated, and symbols like locks typically signify this boundary. By observing these symbols, Yujie discovered their significant role in challenging urban power dynamics, privatization, and the mentality of enclosure. People tend to “lock” or “cover” items to mark them as private, giving these objects an absurd quality. Using the “lock” as a starting point, it represents privatization and enclosure while appearing in public spaces, prompting Yujie to consider the delicate balance between power, control, and individual freedom in urban spaces.
@yujiefan_jojo
yujiefanphoto.com
Content Warning
The content on this website may contain themes and materials that some users find distressing or offensive. Further, the content on this website may not be suitable for individuals under the age of 18. User discretion is advised.
Any views and opinions expressed in this student profile represent the views and opinions of the student and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of the Royal College of Art or its employees or affiliates. The appearance of any views or opinions on this page do not constitute endorsement of those views by the Royal College of Art. This student profile has been made available for informational purposes only. The Royal College of Art does not make any representations or warranties with regard to the accuracy of any information provided in this student profile, nor does it warrant the performance, effectiveness or applicability of any listed or linked sites. The Royal College of Art is not responsible for the content submitted by any user, or for the defamatory, offensive or illegal conduct of any user. If you wish to report any errors or inappropriate material that may cause offence, please email feedback@rca.ac.uk