CHI ( My Fate: Transcending Traditions )

The word Chi is defined to be a term in which we let fate control our future. Surrounded by a family of traditional Chinese calligraphists and artists, I have always despised the idea of blending into their styles through my own artistic explorations. This drawing symbolizes my eagerness to break that familial barrier to push the boundaries of traditional art making and to embrace my own identity as a creator. The calligraphy “ 今日方知我是 我 ” translates to “from this day on I will be myself ” and the big letter “ 气 (qi)” represents my inner determination to embody authenticity amongst many others. As the first person in my family to come to the US. I believe that my inner drive to push barriers was due to my own fate and that my rebelliousness was destined to happen. In a family of many traditional influences and expectations, the ability to challenge their standards doesn’t happen often amongst teenagers in the present day. This perseverance to break through the familial barriers as an artist is what makes me authentic amongst many others.