Prof. Anita Yan Wong, M.F.A.
Asian American artist and Professor
pseudonym: 大白菜, 筆鹿, 王欣
Faculty:
UC Berkeley Extension, SF
School of Visual Arts, NYC
Maryland Institute College of Arts, MD
Tyler School of Arts, Temple University
The Art Institute
Permanent Art / Art book Collection:
Library of Congress
International Art Museum of America
Fresno Art Museum, California
Official Bruce Lee Family Foundation
Feline Historical Museum
Frank Llyod Wright’s Cat house room, CFA Foundation
University of California, Berkeley, The Graphic Arts Loan Collection (GALC)
University of Cambridge Library
Firestone Library, Princeton University
Yale University Robert B Haas Family Arts Library
Award:
Robert B. McMillen foundation Fellowship Award
Fabric Workshop and Museum, 2 year curatorial apprenticeship grant
Design within Reach, Design Philadelphia Award 1st place Wall Art
Teaching Excellence Award, The Art Institute
Award Excellence Scholarship, Maryland Institute College of Art
Baltimore International Rhythm festival Art and music grant
(collaboration with Tom Scott, Dean of Maryland Institute College of Art)
City of Bellevue Art Grant
Bellevue Arts Commission Project Grant
Press & 100 Interviews:
anitayanwong.com/press
Commercial Clients/ Consulations:
ESPN, Disney Inc., Pixar Animation Studios, Funny or Die Emmy award winning magazine, ATRBUTE for Universal Studios, Microsoft Adobe, IKEA,
Design within reach Design Philadelphia and start-up companies such as Augmento Augmented reality gaming NYC (acquired by Apple), Zippy self-driving delivery Silicon Valley (acquired by General Motors), Moss 3D mapping, The Yang and Murry science labs, University of Washington, MAHB Stanford University, School of Visual Arts NYC Global outreach etc.
Non-Profit Clients/Collaborations:
Academy of Natural History, Big Brothers and Big Sisters, American Institute of Graphics Art (AIGA), Ronald McDonald’s House, Action AIDS, Franklin Square Philadelphia, The College of Physicians of Philadelphia, Fabric Workshop and Museum, Baltimore International rhythm festival, Emerald Ballet Academy Bellevue, Gaubert Art and Music Management Palo Alto, hopelink Washington, London prison outreach (University of the arts, Central Saint Martins art program), London Arena (Chinese New Year Art educational program), School of Visual Arts NYC, MAHB Stanford University, University of Washington etc.
Communities Connections:
Anita Yan Wong is an individual local artist (Asian American Contemporary Traditional artist). The artist has experience hosting her own events such as Women history month coffee art event, Botanical Garden pottery fish charity glazing art event. She has curated the 1st fine art focused Cat Art Show with Director of Yuan Ru art center where she exhibited her record breaking“The Largest cat painting in the world” in Bellevue. She has also collaborated with non-profit organization such as Hopelink for "Building Bridges: Food Access & Cultural Identity" and Building Bridges: A Dialogue on Asian & Latin American Contributions" art event at Bellevue College. "Create Together" Art Music and Culture AAPI event at Bellden Cafe. Her main goal is to Introduce “Contemporary Traditional” art through lectures, educational art events, bringing our neighbors and community together with her diverse cultural background and university level art teaching experiences. She has also exhibited her paintings with Bruce Lee Family foundation at the 1st official Bruce Lee Fine Art Exhibition "Be Water" in L.A. to raise awareness and funding for Youth mental health awareness programs.
Founder/ Member of:
Guo Hua Modernist Movement 國畫型人 (founder)
Silicon Valley Art and Technology Meetup (founder)
Asia Team Behance (Adobe), Asia Team Magazine Publication (founder)
Daily Arts Magazine Anita Yan Wong Artist Interview
Book publications:
Between Tradition & Modernity: The Contemporary Traditional Art of of Anita Yan Wong
Ink kittens: The "Contemporary Traditional" feline paintings by Anita Yan Wong
Cat Philosophy: when cat meet the World's greatest minds
Minimalist Cat Art
She, ink portraits by Anita Yan Wong
Nature's poems: Earth art and Poetry
Articles:
"Anita Yan Wong & Lingnan Painting", Daily Art Magazine
"A Conversation with Anita Yan Wong: A Place to Stand", Works & Conversations Magazine
"Gathering of the famous", Art Dependence Magazine
"Blue", The meaning of Despair and Hope during the Pandemic, Stanford University
"Rorschach", China hand Magazine, Yale University
Social media:
Instagram.com/anitayanwong
Youtube.com/@JoyBrush
Between Tradition & Modernity: The Contemporary Traditional Art of of Anita Yan Wong
Ink kittens: The "Contemporary Traditional" feline paintings by Anita Yan Wong
Cat Philosophy: when cat meet the World's greatest minds
Minimalist Cat Art
She, ink portraits by Anita Yan Wong
Nature's poems: Earth art and Poetry
Articles:
"Anita Yan Wong & Lingnan Painting", Daily Art Magazine
"A Conversation with Anita Yan Wong: A Place to Stand", Works & Conversations Magazine
"Gathering of the famous", Art Dependence Magazine
"Blue", The meaning of Despair and Hope during the Pandemic, Stanford University
"Rorschach", China hand Magazine, Yale University
Social media:
Instagram.com/anitayanwong
Youtube.com/@JoyBrush
Testimonials:
"Anita Yan Wong is a multi media artist who uses her passion for nature and her art to capture the beauty and mystery of the world we must save. She does this not with a heavy hand of warnings, but with whimsy and surprise, transcending time and promising the possibility of a future of hope."
– Paul R. Ehrlich, Bing Professor of Population Studies Emeritus; President, Center for Conservation Biology; Department of Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA
"Living in the Bay Area, Anita Wong’s commitment to a traditional form of
Chinese brush painting with its inherently inner quest is brave, to say the
least, where the artworld's attention - as with so much else - is focused
on spectacle, celebrity and blue chip investment."
– Richard Whittaker, Founder & Editor, Works & Conversations Magazine
"Anita is unafraid to see unusual connections – for example Louise Bourgeois‘ Spider sculptures and the blank inkiness of Chinese painting, the daring and innovation of her work is not always obvious."
– Isla Phillips, Art, Archaeology and the Roman poet Ovid specialist, University of Cambridge; Editor, Daily Art Magazine
"Traditional art form that questions the modern minds" – Zishi Li, Editor, Yale University China Hand magazine
"Anita Wong defies Tradition and Modernity in her latest painting series" – Justin Fang, Editor, Amadeus magazine
"Brilliant, seemingly alive ink paintings" – Zach Tutor, Curator & Editor, Supersonic Art, Juxtapoz & Hi-Fructose magazine
"Anita Yan Wong is a multi media artist who uses her passion for nature and her art to capture the beauty and mystery of the world we must save. She does this not with a heavy hand of warnings, but with whimsy and surprise, transcending time and promising the possibility of a future of hope."
– Paul R. Ehrlich, Bing Professor of Population Studies Emeritus; President, Center for Conservation Biology; Department of Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA
"Living in the Bay Area, Anita Wong’s commitment to a traditional form of
Chinese brush painting with its inherently inner quest is brave, to say the
least, where the artworld's attention - as with so much else - is focused
on spectacle, celebrity and blue chip investment."
– Richard Whittaker, Founder & Editor, Works & Conversations Magazine
"Anita is unafraid to see unusual connections – for example Louise Bourgeois‘ Spider sculptures and the blank inkiness of Chinese painting, the daring and innovation of her work is not always obvious."
– Isla Phillips, Art, Archaeology and the Roman poet Ovid specialist, University of Cambridge; Editor, Daily Art Magazine
"Traditional art form that questions the modern minds" – Zishi Li, Editor, Yale University China Hand magazine
"Anita Wong defies Tradition and Modernity in her latest painting series" – Justin Fang, Editor, Amadeus magazine
"Brilliant, seemingly alive ink paintings" – Zach Tutor, Curator & Editor, Supersonic Art, Juxtapoz & Hi-Fructose magazine
Artist Bio
Anita Yan Wong, M.F.A., is an Asian American Women Artist best known for her unique style of “Contemporary Traditional" Lingnan paintings that defies tradition and modernity. The artist, who taught at UC Berkeley S.F. extension California in recent years, is a 4th generation Lingnan painter (which originated in southern China in the late 19th century, known for the fusion of mastering modern Chinese, Japanese and Western painting approaches.). Wong worked as an art Professor for over 15 years at MICA, SVA and Temple University before returning to a sole focus on her art in 2015. Her works are currently featured Internationally on over 100 Traditional and Hip Cultural Blogs & Art Magazines including N.Y. Arts, ESPN, Disney Inc., official Bruce Lee Family Foundation, Daily Arts Magazine, Flower Magazine, KTSF Channel 26 News, Komo News Seattle, Seattle Chinese Times, American Lifestyle Magazine and cover story of Works & Conversations Magazine. The artist was awarded first place wall art by “Design within Reach” in Design Philadelphia Award; "Excellent Scholars" from Maryland Institute College of Art & "Teaching excellence honor" from the art Institute and Fellowship Award from Robert B. McMillen foundation 2021. Wong's work is researched by Academics; Art historians and Phd students Internationally. She has collaborated with MAHB, Stanford University with the goal of preserving Lingnan Guo Hua and the beauties in nature. Yale University's China Hands Magazine described her paintings as “Traditional art form that questions the modern minds.”
Education
Wong started traditional Lingnan Painting lessons at the age of five. The artist received her first western art education – B.A. (Honors) in Graphic Design from Central Saint Martins, University of the Arts London after graduating from Hong Kong Polytechnic University Art and Design department; her M.F.A. and M.A. in Digital Photography and Digital Arts from Maryland Institute College of Art. Wong served as an electronic media and cultural professor for over fifteen years. During this time, she was awarded Excellence Scholars from Maryland Institute College of Art and “Teaching excellence honor” from the Art Institute. Throughout the years the artist took part in an array of non profit artistic projects around the world including Baltimore international rhythm festival, Academy of Natural History Museum insects show and Action AIDS. With her cross platform interests like film and electronic media – she has also served as a guest speaker for many events, including film and television director Bob Giraldi (best known for the creator of Michael Jackson music video).
Wong started traditional Lingnan Painting lessons at the age of five. The artist received her first western art education – B.A. (Honors) in Graphic Design from Central Saint Martins, University of the Arts London after graduating from Hong Kong Polytechnic University Art and Design department; her M.F.A. and M.A. in Digital Photography and Digital Arts from Maryland Institute College of Art. Wong served as an electronic media and cultural professor for over fifteen years. During this time, she was awarded Excellence Scholars from Maryland Institute College of Art and “Teaching excellence honor” from the Art Institute. Throughout the years the artist took part in an array of non profit artistic projects around the world including Baltimore international rhythm festival, Academy of Natural History Museum insects show and Action AIDS. With her cross platform interests like film and electronic media – she has also served as a guest speaker for many events, including film and television director Bob Giraldi (best known for the creator of Michael Jackson music video).
KTSF Channel 26 Exclusive TV interview with Professor Anita Yan Wong
Subjects & Style
Nature serves as the primary inspiration for the artist, who equally appreciates works from the Impressionism and Fauvism movements and the brushstrokes found in traditional Asian paintings. With her background in creating dynamic imagery, Anita explores the movements of subjects and the passage of time through her swift brushstrokes, which is why animals and natural elements recur as recurring themes in her work. Seemingly alive—cats and birds in full flight experience a certain level of abstraction while still retaining their natural appeal. Inspired by John James Audubon, Wong began documenting endangered tropical birds and birds native to America, such as the American eagle and hummingbird, which are not commonly depicted in Asian art due to their geographical locations.
Wong primarily employs ink, minerals, and acrylic on wood and canvas to create her art. However, her works extend beyond these mediums, such as her ceramic wall painting utilizing clay as a medium, light painting employing light as a paintbrush, and sun printing using sunlight to capture imagery on canvas in her ocean awareness painting series. Her technique emphasizes brushstrokes, her painting subject, conceptual thinking, and painting techniques, showcasing her innovation as a contemporary Lingnan artist. Wong’s new “Lingnan Guo Hua” style is influenced by Impressionism and Fauvism, evident in the expressive brushstrokes, shimmering effects of light, and movement that define her work. Her style has evolved from traditional to “contemporary traditional” art, reflecting her desire to innovate while honoring her cultural heritage.
Nature serves as the primary inspiration for the artist, who equally appreciates works from the Impressionism and Fauvism movements and the brushstrokes found in traditional Asian paintings. With her background in creating dynamic imagery, Anita explores the movements of subjects and the passage of time through her swift brushstrokes, which is why animals and natural elements recur as recurring themes in her work. Seemingly alive—cats and birds in full flight experience a certain level of abstraction while still retaining their natural appeal. Inspired by John James Audubon, Wong began documenting endangered tropical birds and birds native to America, such as the American eagle and hummingbird, which are not commonly depicted in Asian art due to their geographical locations.
Wong primarily employs ink, minerals, and acrylic on wood and canvas to create her art. However, her works extend beyond these mediums, such as her ceramic wall painting utilizing clay as a medium, light painting employing light as a paintbrush, and sun printing using sunlight to capture imagery on canvas in her ocean awareness painting series. Her technique emphasizes brushstrokes, her painting subject, conceptual thinking, and painting techniques, showcasing her innovation as a contemporary Lingnan artist. Wong’s new “Lingnan Guo Hua” style is influenced by Impressionism and Fauvism, evident in the expressive brushstrokes, shimmering effects of light, and movement that define her work. Her style has evolved from traditional to “contemporary traditional” art, reflecting her desire to innovate while honoring her cultural heritage.
Artist Statement
I’m passionate about creating art that brings nature to life using “Contemporary Lingnan” painting techniques. Even though the 19th century art form has faced its decline in the digital world, I’m determined to keep it alive and share it with my community. I’ve developed unique painting techniques using ink, acrylic, and alternative materials like AR ink, light painting, and sun printing. I prefer calligraphy brushes on cradled wood panels and canvas over traditional rice paper (Xuan paper), blending Eastern and Western artistic styles to create a new Lingnan art style that reflects Chinese, Japanese, and Impressionism heritage and my life experiences. Cultural expressions, including Western and Eastern art, shape my identity and artistic endeavors. I aim to create pieces that resonate with millennials and inspire global environmental conservation and cultural heritage celebration. I’m eager to share my art with diverse audiences and generations.
My subjects include environmental awareness projects like fish, birds, flowers, cats, tigers, and the human figure. Calligraphy brush and ink capture their pure forms. My current subject is the House Cat, unique in its universal appeal across ages and cultures. I aim to capture its perfection through minimal brushstrokes conveying form, texture, and spirit.
Earlier works like “Rorschach” (2016) challenge traditional art in the digital age. My cherished painting series, “Preserve,” uses pins to preserve real insects and objects, reflecting my desire to preserve nature’s beauty and the ancient art form of Lingnan Guo hua (China’s National Art in the 19th century, similar to the Impressionist movement in the West). Both traditional and contemporary Western and Eastern arts resonate with my identity and influence my art. While trained as a traditional Lingnan artist, living and working in Silicon Valley with high-tech and startup companies has profoundly impacted my art, fostering an appreciation for both the past and the future. My ultimate aspiration is to develop distinctive contemporary traditional Lingnan art that resonates with viewers in the Millennium.
I’m passionate about creating art that brings nature to life using “Contemporary Lingnan” painting techniques. Even though the 19th century art form has faced its decline in the digital world, I’m determined to keep it alive and share it with my community. I’ve developed unique painting techniques using ink, acrylic, and alternative materials like AR ink, light painting, and sun printing. I prefer calligraphy brushes on cradled wood panels and canvas over traditional rice paper (Xuan paper), blending Eastern and Western artistic styles to create a new Lingnan art style that reflects Chinese, Japanese, and Impressionism heritage and my life experiences. Cultural expressions, including Western and Eastern art, shape my identity and artistic endeavors. I aim to create pieces that resonate with millennials and inspire global environmental conservation and cultural heritage celebration. I’m eager to share my art with diverse audiences and generations.
My subjects include environmental awareness projects like fish, birds, flowers, cats, tigers, and the human figure. Calligraphy brush and ink capture their pure forms. My current subject is the House Cat, unique in its universal appeal across ages and cultures. I aim to capture its perfection through minimal brushstrokes conveying form, texture, and spirit.
Earlier works like “Rorschach” (2016) challenge traditional art in the digital age. My cherished painting series, “Preserve,” uses pins to preserve real insects and objects, reflecting my desire to preserve nature’s beauty and the ancient art form of Lingnan Guo hua (China’s National Art in the 19th century, similar to the Impressionist movement in the West). Both traditional and contemporary Western and Eastern arts resonate with my identity and influence my art. While trained as a traditional Lingnan artist, living and working in Silicon Valley with high-tech and startup companies has profoundly impacted my art, fostering an appreciation for both the past and the future. My ultimate aspiration is to develop distinctive contemporary traditional Lingnan art that resonates with viewers in the Millennium.
"Preserved" 3D paintings, Flower Magazine article
"Nature's Poem" bird art by Anita Yan Wong, Solo Art Exhibition at International Art Museum of America,
"Green Bird Terrarium" bird painting by the artist is a permanent collection of Fresno Art Museum, California