Jon Tsoi, an artist hailing from the cultural depths of Sichuan, China, embarked on his journey through the turbulent seas of artistic expression in 1979. Venturing into the heart of New York City, he sought to unravel the mysteries of contemporary art post the Cultural Revolution.
At Montclair State University, Tsoi delved deep into the intricacies of artistic expression, shaping his unique perspective on the canvas of his soul. His mantra: “Non-visual art prescript spiritual and internal medicine to cure, the disease of external and enslaved art senses.” It’s not just about what meets the eye; it’s about what resonates within.
Tsoi’s oeuvre spans over five decades, marked by over 50 solo exhibitions and more than 100 group showcases. His art, a testament to the boundless expanse of inner vision, has found its home in prestigious galleries across the United States. From Ethan Cohen Art Gallery to WhiteBox Art Space, his work transcends conventional boundaries, inviting viewers to embark on a journey of self-discovery.
But Tsoi’s art isn’t confined to the gallery walls; it spills over into the realm of performance. In a groundbreaking four-day blind performance titled “Art Diagnosis and Diagnosis for Art,” Tsoi plunged into the depths of inner spirit art at the Queens Museum in New York. His blind-inner spirit art performances, a fusion of intuition and creativity, have captivated audiences worldwide.
The WhiteBox Art Space stands as a testament to Tsoi’s art career. Over three decades of collaboration and innovation have solidified his position as a stalwart of contemporary art. In 2016, a monumental moment unfolded as the founder and artistic director of WhiteBox Art Space journeyed to Chongqing, China, to co-curate Tsoi’s first solo exhibition in his homeland after 37 years.
Tsoi’s artistic prowess knows no bounds, transcending geographical confines to grace international platforms. From the Bebe Confiscatory Alla Mafia Italian Art Museum to the Manifesta 12 Palermo Italian Biennale, his work has been showcased internationally. In 2018, his pieces were featured in the “Unseen” exhibition, reaffirming his status as a luminary of contemporary art.
Art critic Anthony Haden-Guest proclaimed, “Jon Tsoi is a great and extraordinary artist.” His art, crafted through blind-inner spirit and subconscious inspiration, defies convention, transcending the boundaries of visual aesthetics.
Tsoi’s artworks adorn the collections of esteemed art institutions, museums, and collectors worldwide. His artwork, a tapestry woven with threads of introspection and innovation, continues to inspire generations of artists.
