Ran He

Biography

Ran He was born in Nanjing, a city in China, and was raised there until graduation from middle school. In 2021, she graduated with a BFA in painting, from the Boston University and is currently studying at the School of the Museum of Fine Arts at Tufts in pursuit of an MFA degree in studio art focusing on painting and ceramic sculpture. She has had a solo show in Boston University at Gallery 5, as well as having participated in many group shows at Gallery 5, Faye G., Jo, and James Stone Gallery, Milcon Gallery, Nearby Gallery, and Mission Hill Gallery in the Boston area. Ran was a Spring 2021 featured artist of ART@Sloane in Boston. She was awarded the School of the Museum of Fine Arts at Tufts University MFA scholarship, Montague Travel Grant in Boston, and has participated in NY20+ Artist Residency Program in Chengdu China in summer of 2021.  

Artist Statement

Through image, form, and material construction, I reflect on the labor-intensive work that mostly women participate in. The work consists of often abstract images of people that could be the audience or the participant; the environment of the workplace; and the objects that are symbolic of the specific occupation or people. I attempt to create a contemplative visual world that explores the narrative intermixing of people and cultures, as well as the relationship between humans and the society around them through conceptual and visual aspects. With a conceptual foundation derived from my own experiences as an East Asian woman, witnessed events, or researched topics, my pieces reach beyond the personal and often culturally constructed. My work brings concerns to the audience, especially to women, in order that they might pay attention to gender inequality, to avoid perpetuating it in the workplace or at home.  

I investigate ceramic slab, sculpture, and painting in terms of balance and tension, looking for unexpected fusion between the elements and materials that result in meaningful relationships. My work makes the audience feel a sense of ritual. The works often remap the relationship to space, time, and character. It’s a narrative project that reflects the stereotypical gender ideology from gender colors, women’s roles, and responsibilities in the workplace.  

Instagram: @he_r6n

Headshot by Naail Ali, BFA '23