SHAN Explores the Depths of Human Connection in 'Human Interaction (or "Hi!") Project'
In an era where digital interactions often replace face-to-face connections, artist SHAN challenges us to look deeper—beyond the surface—into the complex layers of human experience. Her latest series, the Human Interaction Art Project, is a compelling visual and interactive journey that brings personal narratives to life through layered paintings.
At the heart of this project lies a unique storytelling approach: each piece consists of multiple layers, each representing a significant moment in an individual’s life. These layers, applied one over another, mirror the complexity of personal histories—some parts visible, others intentionally concealed. The hidden elements encourage the viewer to look beyond what is immediately apparent, fostering curiosity and interpretation.
Each painting in this series comes to life through an accompanying video, unveiling its story layer by layer. Viewers are invited to witness the transformation and uncover the depth behind each work. The evolving process reflects how no single moment or experience defines a person in their entirety; rather, identity is shaped by the interplay of all past experiences.
But SHAN takes the interaction a step further. The mini paintings created for this series are not meant to remain with a single owner. Instead, they are designed to be shared, passed from one person to another, creating an ever-growing network of human connection. Each new recipient becomes part of the artwork’s evolving journey, reflecting on its meaning and adding their own interpretation to the ongoing narrative.
The first piece in the series, What Haiti Gave Me, serves as a powerful introduction to this artistic exploration. Submitted by an individual as part of the project, this piece captures the essence of his experience in Haiti, reflecting the intangible gifts received from the culture, people, and environment. As with all paintings in this series, the final composition is only fully understood when one embraces both the visible and the hidden, just as human relationships require looking beyond first impressions to appreciate the depth within.
To fully immerse yourself in the unfolding layers of these stories, we encourage you to watch the full Human Interaction playlist directly on YouTube. Clicking 'Watch on YouTube' (bottom left corner of video) enhances the experience, allowing you to explore related videos, engage with comments, and become part of the broader conversation surrounding this project.
Through the Human Interaction Art Project, SHAN transforms painting into an interactive experience—one that invites viewers not only to observe but to participate. As these miniature artworks travel, they become more than just paintings; they become catalysts for conversation, introspection, and shared human experience.
Join SHAN in this artistic journey, where stories unfold, layers intertwine, and human connection is reignited through the transformative power of art.