BIO

Lana Yuan, a Chinese-born artist in Toronto, specializes in sculpture and kinetic installations. She graduated with distinction from the University of Toronto's Studio Art Specialist program and has exhibited at venues such as the Art Museum at the University of Toronto and Red Head Gallery.

Lana won the Juror Prize for the Shelley Peterson Student Art Exhibition in 2019 and received the Equity and Diversity in the Arts Student project grant in 2018 and 2019. In 2020, she participated in the Artist Residency program supported by SKETCH Working Arts and DesignTO and won the 401 Career Launcher Prize, granting her studio space from 2022 to 2023.

In 2023 and early 2024, Lana received the Newcomer Arts Award and Newcomer Space Award from the Toronto Arts Foundation's Neighbourhood Arts Network, as well as the Exhibition Assistance Grant from the Ontario Arts Council.

Statement

My artistic journey has been fueled by an exploration of shared childhood nostalgia, dreams, and memories, serving as vital links to our past and present understanding of urban life. Simultaneously, my international education broadened my perspective, exposing me to diverse cultures and their unique narratives. This newfound awareness has deeply shaped my artistic vision, leading me to view art as a vessel for encapsulating the shared human experience and personal expression.

In my work, I aim to bridge the abstract realms of dreams and memories with the urban landscape. Employing materials such as toys, steel, aluminum, wood, and drywall, I imbue realism into fantastical elements, breathing life into my themes. By integrating intricate mechanical components and sensors, my pieces establish an intimate connection with viewers, transcending mere physicality and engaging them in an exploration of the subconscious.