Jiaxi Han

Jiaxi Han (韓佳希) is a visual artist dedicated to preserving and exploring the traditional Miao indigo-dyed batik (苗族藍染蠟染工藝) from southwest China. Her current practice focuses on the intersection of heritage craftsmanship and contemporary art, emphasizing cultural dialogue and innovation within traditional techniques. She works across diverse mediums, including textiles, lens-based media, and text, to create multi-layered explorations of cultural narratives. Born in 1993 in Guizhou, China, Han is of Buyi ethnicity (布依族). Her upbringing in a region rich with Buyi and Miao traditions deeply influenced her artistic journey. After earning a bachelor’s degree in Visual Arts from Hong Kong Baptist University in 2017, Han pursued a double master’s degree at Hong Kong Baptist University and Zurich University of the Arts, focusing on Visual and Transdisciplinary Arts, graduating in 2021. Han has conducted extensive field research in Miao villages, documenting and learning the intricate processes of batik-making, from wax application and indigo dyeing to motif design. Her work highlights the craftsmanship and cultural narratives of Miao women, addressing the impact of modernization on their livelihoods. Through exhibitions and workshops, Han bridges traditional practices with global audiences, fostering appreciation and new possibilities for this endangered art form. Since 2018, she has worked across Europe, Hong Kong, and mainland China, integrating diverse cultural influences into her practice. Han’s ongoing projects reflect her commitment to revitalizing traditional crafts while engaging in contemporary discourse.