Xiao Han, an innovative Saskatoon-based artist, uses performance, sound, and storytelling to build bridges between cultures.
Originally from mainland China, Han came to Saskatchewan in 2013 for school, never imagining she would stay permanently. Yet it was here that she discovered a new avenue for sharing her cross-cultural experiences: the visual and performing arts. Today, Han’s evolving practice is supported and guided by the RBC Sustained Artist Mentorship program at Remai Modern, a resource that helps artists explore and refine their creative work.
Finding a Home Through Art
Han’s journey began with studying photography, which led her to experiment with self-portraiture and staged storytelling. She realized that merely capturing images wasn’t enough: there was a performance element waiting to be explored.
“I set up the stage, set up the camera for myself, and I take a photo of myself to create a story,” she explains. “I realized… I want to enhance my performance.”
Over time, Han broadened her practice to include dance, storytelling, and now a meditative musical instrument called the guqin that complements her fascination with atmosphere and mood. She describes how the guqin—often associated with classical Chinese culture—allows her to cut across linguistic and cultural barriers. By focusing on the intangible qualities of sound, Han can speak to a broad audience.
“I found sound itself has more accessibility, more access to people’s feeling.”
Despite the music’s popular appeal, Han maintains an intensely personal element in her art. She frequently draws upon her upbringing in China, weaving her heritage into the Canadian contexts where she now lives and works.
“As a first-generation immigrant, you feel like you walk in the fog every day,” Han reflects. “But it has helped me become a stronger person… None of us know where we’re going… But that’s fine.”
Uncovering a focus
When Han reached a point where she sought greater clarity in her work—especially regarding how best to shape her performance-based practice—she turned to the RBC Sustained Artist Mentorship program at Remai Modern.
Her goal when applying was to get support, either to narrow down her questions or help her find the tools to continue her research. She recalls explaining to the program lead, Troy Gronsdahl, that while she had plenty of enthusiasm for her evolving performance pieces, she needed expert input to channel it.
“I was probably too blurry in my head about that project… I needed to narrow it down with mentorship.”
The RBC Sustained Artist Mentorship Program at Remai Modern does more than offer professional networking opportunities. It fosters a supportive environment for exploration, enabling artists to take creative risks without feeling adrift. These connections often lead to new collaborative projects and public performances—greatly expanding the visibility of local artists.
Han feels like the program has helped her gain a clearer sense of purpose in her work. She’s realized it’s not just about the technical details; it’s also a space to ask deeper questions about what she wants to say and why.
A Bridge Between Worlds
Through her work, Han aspires to spark discussions on diaspora, identity, and cross-cultural conversations, encouraging viewers and listeners to delve into their own stories. Whether through the ambient resonance of her instrument, or spoken pieces that resemble poetic recitations, she invites audiences to reflect on movement, belonging, and the experience of being “in between” cultures.
She also hopes to highlight commonalities among people.
“I see myself as a bridge between cultures,” Han explains. “I carry this Chinese heritage culture, and also my experience in Canada.”
By presenting fragments of her Chinese heritage in a Canadian setting, Han helps diverse audiences find connection in spaces where cultural boundaries once seemed imposing.
About the RBC Sustained Artists Mentorship Program
The RBC Sustained Artist Mentorship program at Remai Modern provides emerging and mid-career artists with access to facilities, curators, and community resources. Each participant receives individualized feedback and opportunities to showcase or further develop their works. The ultimate goal is to nurture Saskatchewan’s vibrant creative community, supporting artists and forms of practice that resonate locally and beyond.