Nina Klein

Nina Klein invents a visual language similar to that of hieroglyphics, a symbolic messaging that tells stories of the body & gender expression.

TARA BLACKWELL is American but lives in North America

Los Angeles, CA

Self Expression

Gender Identity

Her STORY

Nina Klein boldly faces the modern controversies and challenges surrounding the myths of femininity and gender ideals. She translates these themes into clean, minimalist visuals that unpack an essential discourse. Using motifs reminiscent of water, light, and animals, she projects a powerful yet natural image of womanhood.⁣

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Each painting is a visual representation transcending the traditional perspectives on gender identity and expectations. Klein denies the viewer their ability to reduce the body to a subordinate object of desire, and empowers the subject through her invented symbolism.

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What we love
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Klein’s relationship with semiotics, the study of signs and their interpretations, began in her youth surrounded by religion and subtexts within advertising. During her upbringing, Klein discovered the power of prophetic visions and dreams, and the impact it had on her religious community. Signs in biblical texts had the same effect, holding a strong influence over those who surrounded her. This style of language became a primary tool in her artist toolbox as she explored painting and worked with a variety of media ranging from acrylic, gouache, oil, and enamel.

I aim to create a lexicon of graphic, symbolic shapes and objects that position the body as a coded subject.

- Nina Klein

IMPACT

GENDER IDENTITY

The lexicon of symbolic shapes created through this artwork serves as vehicles to express gender identity and expression. Klein redefines the mainstream approach to gender identity and traditional roles perpetuated by contemporary society by obscuring the physical form while maintaining the organic movement of the body. This redesign of the body raises questions about how culture, society, and lived experiences impact our personal presentation of the self.