10 Questions with Via Li

Via Li, a painter based in Cupertino, CA, is passionately dedicated to capturing the intricate emotions of women and addressing the daily challenges and injustices they grapple with. The artist employs women as conduits for exploring emotions as a tangible form of energy.

Life experiences significantly shape one's identity, with the most memorable moments often intertwined with intense emotions. Instead of narrating events, Via expressively conveys her personal emotions, creating a visual chronicle of her life's journey. Her own self becomes the canvas through which she highlights issues she personally confronts, symbolizing a broader representation of women collectively.

Via's paintings possess a dual nature—simultaneously tenderly beautiful and poignantly compelling. The allure of the visuals conceals a weighty undercurrent. These canvases consistently leave viewers entwined in a web of conflicting sentiments and reflections, provoking contemplation about the unexpected interplay between beauty and pain. The result is an atmosphere of suspense that lingers, inviting deeper introspection.

www.vialiart.com | @via.li_art

INTERVIEW

Let's start with your background and training. What is your artistic background, and how did you start experimenting with art?

My artistic journey began under the guidance of my grandmother, my initial art instructor. Despite the challenges of a dynamic environment, I found solace in the intricate beauty of my grandmother's traditional Chinese art. This early exposure became the cornerstone of my artistic passion, propelling me to seek formal art education from middle school in China. The structured training during these formative years laid a robust foundation for my artistic expression. In college, I ventured into textile design, and later, I earned my master's degree in illustration. Transitioning from China to the United States, this diverse educational background enriched my perspective and fueled my evolution as an artist. It was during this journey that I discovered painting as a medium, offering a broader canvas for exploration and a deeper connection to emotions.

Between the air, Acrylic on canvas, 36x36 in, 2023 © Via Li

Why are you an artist, and when did you first decide to become one?

I embarked on the path of an artist because I firmly believe in the power of visual language to evoke emotions, inspire contemplation, and convey complex ideas. Art became my sanctuary, especially during challenging times. The solace, joy, and inner peace I found through painting served as the catalyst for my wholehearted commitment to a career in art. The pivotal decision to pursue art as a profession solidified during my years of study, as I realized it was a lifelong passion that I would continue to pursue.

You studied illustration before turning to painting. What do these two techniques have in common, in your opinion? And how does your illustration background help you with your paintings?

Studying illustration before transitioning to painting has provided me with valuable insights into the shared essence of these two artistic disciplines. To me, illustration and painting are akin to sister majors, as they both weave a common thread in storytelling and visual communication. The training in illustration has equipped me with the skill to distill intricate narratives into visual elements, significantly influencing my approach to painting. This shared foundation enables me to convey emotions and messages effectively through both mediums, thereby enriching the depth and expressive quality of my artwork.

An option, Acrylic on canvas, 48x36 in, 2022 © Via Li

Coercion, Acrylic, charcoal, pastels on canvas, 56x56 in, 2022 © Via Li

In your work, you address life experiences, especially through the lens of women. How much of your personal life is reflected in your art? And where else do you draw your inspiration from?

I hold a strong conviction that an individual's perspective is molded by their life experiences and memories. As a result, every element expressed in my art is imbued with the influence of my personal journey. Although my art is rooted in my own experiences, my aspiration is to create work that resonates with aspects often overlooked. Directly channeling my emotions from life into my creations, I draw inspiration from observing the varied experiences of women worldwide, immersing myself in literature, and exploring the intricate tapestry of human emotions.

What messages are you trying to convey with your works?

My artistic endeavors aim to stimulate introspection and initiate dialogue on themes centered around emotions, sadness, and empowerment. I aspire to challenge preconceptions and celebrate the resilient and diverse facets of the human spirit.
If all things in the world are composed of energy, emotion is undoubtedly a significant yet undiscovered force. In other words, while happiness is a universally pursued state, delving into the depths of sadness requires further exploration and understanding.

Fog 1, Acrylic, pastel, and charcoal on canvas, 54x35 in, 2022 © Via Li

A key theme in your production is identity, again with a special focus on women. How do you translate this theme into your paintings?

I convey the theme of identity in my paintings by depicting women in various emotional states and capturing moments of self-discovery. I believe that the exploration of pain often yields a deeper self-awareness compared to experiencing happiness. The incorporation of symbolism and expressive techniques serves to convey the intricate and ever-changing nature of identity.

In your art, you start from personal experiences to address social issues and instances. What, in your opinion, is the role of art in addressing such themes?

In my art, I begin with personal experiences to address social issues and instances. In my opinion, the role of art in addressing such themes is akin to a bridge between the artist and the visitors. On one side, art serves as a tree hole for the artist, providing a space for expression and affirmation. On the other side, visitors are touched in various ways, creating a connection that transcends the boundaries of personal experience.

Do you have anything else you would like to experiment with?

I have always had a keen interest in experimenting with new media. Currently, I am exploring the realm of sculptures, finding the transition from 2D to 3D art particularly fascinating. Additionally, within my paintings, I am delving into the incorporation of abstract elements, adding a new dimension to my artistic expression.

What are you working on right now? Any exciting project or exhibition coming up soon?

At the moment, I am engrossed in a new project that delves into my recent experiences since work. It's a challenge to balance dreams and reality, and this endeavor is a reflection of that delicate equilibrium. As for exhibitions, there are exciting prospects on the horizon, and I look forward to sharing my work with a wider audience soon.

Finally, as we are almost at the end of the year, how has your 2023 been so far? And what else would you like to achieve this year?

As we approach the end of the year, 2023 has been a journey of growth and introspection. I've faced the delicate challenge of balancing aspirations with the demands of reality. Looking ahead, my goal is to continue this exploration and achieve a harmonious integration of my artistic dreams with the practicalities of life.

Artist’s Talk

Al-Tiba9 Interviews is a promotional platform for artists to articulate their vision and engage them with our diverse readership through a published art dialogue. The artists are interviewed by Mohamed Benhadj, the founder & curator of Al-Tiba9, to highlight their artistic careers and introduce them to the international contemporary art scene across our vast network of museums, galleries, art professionals, art dealers, collectors, and art lovers across the globe.

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