Chinese Pronouns

Project Description

Medium: P5.js

Date: 2022.6

Presented in Useless Machines Exhibition at TheBlanc Gallery

Project Website

Chinese Pronouns is a generative art project that tackles the challenges faced by non-binary individuals in the Chinese language and culture by generating gender-neutral pronouns. The binary gender system in Mandarin Chinese can make it difficult for non-binary individuals to find appropriate pronouns that accurately reflect their gender identity. The project aims to promote the inclusivity of diverse gender identities on the internet and social media by creating new Chinese characters using the creative coding language p5.js, which reflects a broader range of gender identities.

Inspired by the online resource The Gender in Language Project, Chinese Pronouns generates new pronouns that include the "X也" pronoun for intersex individuals and the "无也" pronoun that stands for "none." These innovative pronouns are created by and for non-binary Mandarin speakers seeking an inclusive form in the native script. The commonly used pronouns "他," he, and "她," she, in Chinese have the same pronunciation but can be distinguished by the gender-related radicals "人," man, and "女," woman.

By creating gender-neutral characters and pronouns, Chinese Pronouns challenges traditional gender biases and promote a more inclusive language that celebrates gender diversity. The project aims to start a broader conversation about gender and identity, empowering individuals to express themselves more fully and authentically. The project uses creative coding as a baby step to create lasting change for non-binary individuals in China and worldwide, raising awareness of the ongoing conversation about gender equality in languages.

Showcase in TheBlanc Gallery

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Interaction