Killion Huang (b. 1999, Hangzhou, China) earned his BFA from the New York School of Visual Arts in 2022. Deeply influenced by a diverse range of artistic lineage – from Matisse and Bonnard to Louis Fratino and Oscar Yi Hou - Killion's work reflects a connection to both art history and contemporary queer culture. His paintings draw on his personal experiences as a queer artist, navigating between his time in New York City during his studies and his current life in China, offering glimpses into the lives of individuals who formed part of his community in these two radically different environments.
Huang’s practice is fuelled by a commitment to making queer identities visible, especially in places like China, where queer culture largely remains in the shadows. His work explores the complexities of queer identity, weaving together themes of intimacy, vulnerability, and community. Through his nuanced portraits and reflective compositions, Huang seeks to provide a platform for voices that have long been marginalized, inviting viewers to engage with the emotional and social landscapes of his subjects. His work doesn’t just reflect a community; it insists on its presence, challenging the silence surrounding it.
Killion Huang’s work has been exhibited across the United States, Europe, and Asia, and is held in both private and public collections, including the X Museum in Beijing, China.