Chenlu Hou
"This piece explores the intertwined themes of transformation, resilience, and renewal through the symbolism of two snakes forming the shape of a butterfly. The deliberate design draws parallels between the transformative nature of a snake shedding its skin and a butterfly emerging from its chrysalis, while simultaneously referencing a woman’s reproductive system, including the uterus and fallopian tubes.
In the context of the Year of the Wood Snake, this sculpture reflects the continuous struggles and renewal inherent in women's societal experiences. The snakes, as guardians and agents of change, embody the relentlessness women often demonstrate in navigating societal expectations, reclaiming autonomy, and inspiring progress. Their dual role as protectors and symbols of transformation highlights the layered resilience required to foster personal and collective renewal.
The butterfly shape—universally associated with metamorphosis—adds another dimension the piece, suggesting hope, possibility, and the beauty that emerges through persistence and adaptation. This juxtaposition of fragility and strength mirrors the ongoing efforts to challenge and reshape societal narratives about womanhood.
Ultimately, this piece asks a vital question: how do we harness relentless perseverance to transform oppressive systems and inspire a future where renewal and possibility are accessible to all?"
ABOUT CHENLU HOUÂ
Chenlu Hou is interested in merging traditional storytelling with contemporary experiences through her imaginative ceramic sculptures. By blending elements from her life in the U.S. and her Chinese heritage, she transforms clay into a metaphor for adaptation and emotion. Using ceramic sculptures, found objects, and video, Chenlu employs folk art as a core language, placing these media in unconventional relationships to explore their evolving roles as storytelling tools in today's complex world. Chenlu Hou, born in Shandong, China, is a Providence-based ceramic artist who earned an MFA from RISD in 2019. Her work has been exhibited internationally and she has completed residencies at Penland, HCCC, and Archie Bray. She is currently a studio artist at the MAD Museum, NYC. Chenlu teaches at Connecticut College and is a Visiting Critic at RISD.