Working from his Gowanus Canal studio in Brooklyn, NY, Shijia Chen is a sculptor who works in stone, marble, wood and metal.  

He immigrated to the United States in 1980 to study at the Arts Student League.  Fascinated by both the monumentality and delicacy of his chosen materials, Chen’s sculptures straddle the space between stillness and movement, weightlessness and immensity as they engage the viewer with their dynamic physicality.

Stone Sculptures:
selected works

Fountain

Limestone
36 inches high
1989
private commission

The Angel

Limestone
14 x 30 x 12 inches
1992
public commission

Metal Sculptures

Guernica, After Picasso
(details)

Shijia Chen’s most recent series, “After Picasso” realizes the master’s figurative paintings in sheet metal.

In Chen’s “Guernica, After Picasso” the horror of war that Picasso painted is re-created with rugged, rigid sheet metal that has been hammered out, sliced, chopped and cut to form a three-dimensional composition hanging that has sharp edges, mangled body parts, twisted metal, limp figures and opened mouths seeming to screech into the air. 

These visceral components are juxtaposed with the shining, shimmering and glowing gold leaf sprinkled thoughout the composition.  At the center bottom of the painting, a poignant and powerful deep red and yellow flower in full bloom is being clutched by a disembodied hand that is also holding a sword.  

Four Seasons

Metal, Oil Paint mounted on  Metal
20 x 100 inches
2024

Wood Sculptures

Plaster Sculptures

Historical Landmark Restoration

In addition to his fine art practice, Chen is passionate about preserving and restoring historical and landmark structures.  

B and H Art in Architecture, ltd.

Shijia Chen,
Master Stone Carver



Having established B and H (Brain and Hand) Art in Architecture, Chen has worked on many of the city’s most important cultural institutions ensuring that these structures retain their history, architectural integrity and beauty for generations to come.  

“Restoring New York,” published in China recounts Chen’s remarkable experience as one of New York’s premier stone carvers and restorers.

B and H Art in Architecture, ltd.

For more information, contact me at

shijiachen02@gmail.com

Or contact my gallery at

cherylmcginnisgallery@gmail.com