Jun Yan is a sculptor based in the San Francisco Bay Area who draws inspiration from his Buddhist background. His works focus on nature forms, expressing an internal strength. Using bronze, ceramic and other materials, he sculpts a diverse range of subjects that embody a philosophy of stillness and connection among all natural forms of life.
Artist Statement: As a practicing Buddhist, my artistic journey is deeply rooted in the exploration of spiritual realms that transcend surface appearances. Inspired by the teachings of my tradition, I aim to channel a sense of inner strength and tranquility into my works.
Working with clay and metal, I draw upon the symbolic qualities of these materials. Clay, with its fragility and vulnerability, reflects the impermanence of the physical form and the inevitable passage of time. In contrast, metal, with its strength and durability, represents the enduring nature of the inner self—a profound, eternal essence.
My goal is to explore the intricate balance between our bodily form and the deeper, unchanging self. These works embody elemental forces—flesh and bone, breath and time. Through the interplay of these earthly materials in my sculptures, I’m building a connection to nature and the cycles of life, emphasizing that we are an integral part of it.
Moraga Art Gallery 