Jiaqi (Kassi) Chu

After Vincent Van Gogh: at Saint-Paul-de-Mausole Asylum, 2022-2023

Pietersite, gold gilded painting frames, sterling silver

The front of the brooch resembles Van Gogh’s Painting of the hills at Saint-Remy displayed in museums. The preterite (formed by quartz encasing blue crocidolite asbestos) was chosen for the chatoyancy ruminating of his vivid, signature (toxic) blue paint and his attempt at ending his life by swallowing the said paint. The action of wearing the brooch is an echoing of the self-commitment to lock oneself in. The pin at closing position would be almost identical to the view from his window at the asylum.

Having obtained a Bachelor of Fine Art (hon.) in 2021 and a Master of Curating and Cultural Leadership in 2023, Kassi Chu's undergraduate studies in painting and jewellery seamlessly complemented the theoretical foundations introduced in curatorial practices. Chu's current focus revolves around exploring the tangible connection between human conditions and three-dimensional objects. Materiality has consistently occupied a central role in her art-making practice, spanning both my undergraduate and postgraduate experiences.

The culmination of Kassi Chu's studies at UNSW Art and Design is evident in this body of work, serving as a comprehensive demonstration and conclusion. It draws on her background as a painter, jeweller, and curatorial practitioner.