Meet Cici McMonigle, a mixed media artist whose work showcases an array of creatures and characters drawn from fables and stories, each infused with a distinctive and exaggerated blend of cultural symbolisms. Cici’s paintings not only celebrate the coexistence of her diverse cultural backgrounds but, at the same time, invites viewers to embark on a journey of subconscious exploration and storytelling. Her work creates a space where personal narratives and shared perceptions blur. In doing so, each piece is transformed into a collaborative canvas where imagination and interpretation intertwine.

Cici recently joined the Bakehouse community as a studio resident, sharing a studio with Summer Open alumni and artist Susan Kim Alvarez. Be sure to stop by Studio 12 to learn more about their work! 

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Can You Tell Us About Your Artistic Practice?

I am a mixed media painter that often works on canvas or wood. My work stems from the idea that every mark we make as humans has some subconscious significance or representational aspect. It is subconsciously meaningful and representational to us as a person. My paintings do not begin with preconceived notions of a finished product, rather, they start as spontaneously painted colors, later connected by freely associated patterns, words and images: subconsciously provoked by surroundings and sounds. Recently, I’ve been painting more narratives that infuse both Chinese and American western fables, stories, and patterns. I find that my work often hovers the space between my grasp of technical skills and subconscious brushwork that comes from a place of playfulness. My work relies more on form and process over content, the final result often being an exploration of my feelings, and my identity in relation to my subconscious.

Tell Us About A Personal Artistic Project Or Body Of Work That You Are Currently Excited About.

I’m excited about several upcoming projects, but I'm especially thrilled about my new series of sculptural paintings. I’m creating my own creatures on wood cutouts, inspired by traditional Chinese folk toys. Growing up, I loved these brightly colored cloth animals, which are seen as symbols of peace and prosperity, usually given on birthdays or New Years. I wanted to create and share my own versions of these figures with the world. I know my family in China will be very excited to see them!

Tell Us About How You Have Developed As An Artist Since You Began Working At Bakehouse.

Bakehouse has been an amazing place to work and connect with artists. Being here surrounded by so many different artists and learning about the workshops has opened my mind to new mediums I hadn’t even thought of exploring. I’ve also been able to work on larger pieces. My studio at Bakehouse feels like my second home, and I feel very lucky to be a resident.

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Cici McMonigle’s (b.2001, Tianjin, China) practice consists of mixed media and sculptural paintings. Cici’s work showcases an array of creatures and characters drawn from fables and stories, each infused with a distinctive and exaggerated blend of cultural symbolism. Through her paintings, she not only celebrates the coexistence of her diverse cultural background; but also invites viewers to embark on their journey of storytelling. Her paintings create a space where personal narratives and shared perceptions blur. This intricate experience, mixed with her exploration of psychology and the subconscious in art, transforms each piece into a collaborative canvas where imagination and interpretation intertwine.