Leyla Cui, a New York City-based illustrator and artist, crafts compelling visual narratives that delve into the multifaceted nature of female identity. Her evocative pieces interlace elements of memory, personal connection, and how one perceives oneself, resulting in dreamlike and thought-provoking scenes. Through the use of fragmented figures and forms that seem to morph, Cui investigates the physical form as a container for longing, past hurts, and personal evolution.
In Cui’s artistic language, details like hair, skin, and the sensation of touch function as potent symbols of remembrance. These elements highlight the inherent push and pull between being seen and fading away. Moving beyond conventional depictions, her work challenges established understandings and broadens the emotional scope of narrative art. Cui’s creations give tangible form to unspoken feelings and experiences, opening up a realm where womanhood is simultaneously deeply personal and boundless.
The artwork resonates with the quiet yet powerful currents of historical experiences and the ongoing journey of understanding oneself. Cui’s “Between Dreamscapes” offers a space for contemplation, where the fluidity of identity and the complexities of inner life are explored with a unique and compelling artistic vision. Her illustrations encourage a deeper engagement with the silent stories held within and the ever-changing landscape of selfhood.
More info: Website, Instagram.
