Yiting Liu is a multidisciplinary artist based in New York, with a dual background in oil painting and Guqin music performance. She holds a Master of Arts from the Academy of Art University in San Francisco and a Master of Fine Arts from the New York Academy of Art. In 2024, she furthered her studies in the art business at Sotheby’s Institute of Art. Liu’s work bridges traditional Chinese culture and contemporary artistic practices, drawing profound inspiration from pre-Qin literature and Chinese philosophies.

Rooted in the literary and aesthetic traditions of the pre-Qin era, Liu’s artwork captures the distinctive temporality and spatiality of early Chinese literature. Her work often adopts a narrative approach, reinterpreting stories and themes from this period through a contemporary visual lens. By translating abstract concepts into a visual language, Liu seeks to build a bridge between viewers and history, fostering a deeper and more immediate understanding of traditional Chinese culture through non-verbal expression.

In her painting practice, Liu explores the harmonious relationship between humanity and the cosmos. The three tonalities of the Guqin—Universe, Earth, and Humanity—profoundly influence her creative process. Her synesthetic responses to music guide each brushstroke, offering a unique perspective that blends tradition with modernity. Growing up in a music boarding school, Liu developed heightened sensory connections, where her visual and auditory perceptions intertwined through synesthesia. Music profoundly influenced her transition to painting, shaping her unique artistic language that balances abstraction and figuration, expressing deep emotional resonance.

Can you share a bit about your background and how you began your artistic journey?

I have a dual background in painting and Guqin music, which deeply informs my artistic practice. My journey started with a fascination for traditional Chinese culture, particularly pre-Qin literature and philosophy. As a painter, I explore the intersection of visual art and music, translating the temporality and spatiality of ancient texts into a visual language. Studying at the Academy of Art University, the New York Academy of Art has shaped my perspective, providing technical skills and intellectual depth.

What keeps you inspired and motivated to create new work?

My inspiration comes from a deep engagement with nature, philosophy, and music. The concept of Tian Wen (天问), which explores questions of existence, time, and space, is central to my work. I am also influenced by the Guqin’s tonal structure—its resonance mirrors the rhythm of life and artistic expression. Encounters with objects like scholar stones have been particularly impactful, as they embody a sense of concealment and revelation, much like my own creative process.

How has your artistic style evolved over time?

My work has evolved from a more representational approach to one that is rooted in abstraction and conceptual depth. Early on, I focused on technical mastery and traditional forms, but over time, I became more interested in the interplay between seen and unseen elements. My brushwork is increasingly guided by synesthetic responses to sound, and I strive to capture the fleeting, almost meditative experience of music and philosophy in visual form.

What do you find most rewarding about being creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the ability to bridge different worlds—past and present, East and West, music and visual art. I find fulfillment in creating spaces where viewers can engage with ideas beyond language, experiencing history and emotion in a non-verbal, intuitive way. Seeing my work resonate with others, sparking contemplation or nostalgia, is deeply gratifying.

What challenges have you faced as an artist, and how have you overcome them?

One of my biggest challenges has been navigating the balance between tradition and innovation. There is always a tension between preserving cultural heritage and pushing artistic boundaries. At times, I struggled with whether my work was merely reflecting historical aesthetics or truly engaging with contemporary discourse. Through research, mentorship, and critical reflection, I have learned to embrace this duality, allowing it to inform rather than limit my practice. Another challenge has been stepping out of my comfort zone in professional settings, but I have gradually built confidence through exhibitions, collaborations, and engaging with the art community.

What advice would you give to emerging artists looking to establish themselves?

Create with absolute sincerity. Listen to your inner voice and follow what you truly feel called to express, rather than trying to meet external expectations. I firmly believe that only when a piece of work moves the artist first can it truly resonate with others. The power of art lies in genuine emotion and honest thought, and the most impactful creations often come from the artist’s deepest personal impulses. At the same time, keep refining and evolving your work—through exploration, reflection, and continual improvement, you can clarify and enrich your artistic language.

Text & photo courtesy of Yiting Liu

Website: https://ylting.studio/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yiting.studio/