In ‘A Collective Glow,’ Gigi Chen’s Surreal Acrylic Paintings Channel Togetherness and Safety

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Bluebirds are often associated with happiness, love, hope, and positivity, making them an apt subject for New York-based artist Gigi Chen (previously), whose surreal paintings of wildlife merge the animal kingdom with symbols of home, comfort, and connection.

In her forthcoming solo exhibition A Collective Glow at Beinart Gallery in Melbourne, Chen continues to explore emotional ties between animals and the environment. In “A Sparrow’s Song,” a bird’s body radiates with neon pink hearts, while in “A Collective Glow,” half a dozen house sparrows stitch up a gleaming cavity in a pigeon’s breast.

Chen’s newest series considers the relationship between nature and mythology along with autobiographical narratives of the complexities of family, safety, love, and a sense of belonging. Her works incorporate otherworldly, dream-like imagery that draws on childhood associations with movies and television featuring magical animals. “The paintings prominently feature creatures—usually birds—acting as conduits for Chen and her own stories,” says a gallery statement.

A Collective Glow runs from June 23 to July 17. Find more on Chen’s website and Instagram.

“A Collective Glow” (2022), acrylic on wood, 22.5 x 32 inches

“A Sparrow’s Song” (2024), acrylic on wood, 12 x 18 inches

“Burn So Bright” (2024), acrylic on wood, 18 x 24 inches

“At a Glance” (2024), acrylic on wood, 11 x 14 inches

“Murmurations” (2024), acrylic on wood, 21.5 x 14.5 inches

“From Within” (2024), acrylic on wood, 15 x 11 ⅛ inches

“Midnight” (2024), acrylic on wood, 20 x 24 inches

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