Hua Hua is a New York-based interdisciplinary artist, born and raised in Shenzhen, China. Her practice spans jewelry, painting, and sculpture, with each medium serving as a vessel for her observations and reflections on daily life. Huahua is currently pursuing a graduate degree in Art and Art Education at Teachers College, Columbia University. She holds a BFA in Fine Arts from Tufts University.

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

My name is Hua, which means “painting” or “to paint” in Chinese. I’ve been creating for as long as I can remember. Today, I am an artist, a painter, a silversmith, a teacher, and a small business owner who designs and sells jewelry. My family has always been incredibly supportive of my creative pursuits, encouraging me to follow this path throughout the years. I earned my BFA in Fine Arts from Tufts University and am currently pursuing a graduate degree in Art and Art Education at Teachers College, Columbia University.

What keeps you inspired and motivated to create new work?

Life itself is my greatest source of inspiration. I love being an observer, absorbing the subtle details and fleeting moments of daily life. When I’ve taken in enough—whether through experiences, sights, or emotions—creating becomes instinctive, almost like an inevitable release. My motivation stems from the things I still want to say but can’t fully express with words alone.

How has your artistic style evolved over time?

The evolution of my style is closely tied to the external influences I encounter. Since moving to New York, I’ve visited countless exhibitions and seen many works I once admired only through books or screens. Observing the brushstrokes and textures up close has profoundly inspired me. New York, with its layers of textures and vibrant energy, has also found its way into my work—I now incorporate traces of the subway, streets, and parks into my visual language, reflecting the city’s imprint on me.

What do you find most rewarding about being creative?

The most rewarding part is that my passion and my work truly align. The things I love doing—observing, imagining, making—are also the things I get to call my profession.

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

Unlike many other professions, being an artist blurs the line between work and life. When I’m immersed in a project, my mind often lingers there 24/7, turning over ideas, considering possibilities. While this deep focus can be productive, it sometimes leads me into a mental cul-de-sac. Learning to step back, to take breaks, and to allow space for perspective has helped me find more balance.

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

Look, read, and experiment as much as you can. Stay curious, and don’t be afraid to try different mediums, techniques, and styles. Most importantly, don’t give up—persistence and patience are just as crucial as talent when it comes to building an artistic practice.

Text & photo courtesy of Hua Hua

Website: https://www.bengbenghuahua.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bengbenghuahua/