Artist’s Statement:

“Art is the vessel through which my passion, ideas, and faith find expression. Its purpose is to bestow upon the world the gifts of beauty and peace.”—Marina Wang

Marina’s artistic journey started with a mischievous act of joy. As a young child, she playfully depicted boys and girls frolicking beneath the sheltering shade of a grand tree, right on the wall of her parents’ living room. This early display of creativity sparked a flame within her. At the tender age of five, Marina embarked on the practice of Chinese brush painting and calligraphy, immersing herself in the techniques and traditions of this ancient art form.

Recognizing her potential and passion, Marina’s parents took a decisive step in her artistic development. During her high school years, they enrolled her in an art program meticulously crafted by esteemed professors from the renowned Xi’an Academy of Fine Art. This opportunity brought Marina closer to the world of art, allowing her to refine her skills and expand her artistic horizons under the guidance of experienced mentors.

Driven by her unyielding curiosity about the elusive question, “What is art?”, Marina embarked on a journey of intellectual exploration. Determined to gain insight into how others have grappled with this profound query and to further her own artistic practice, she pursued a Bachelor of Arts degree in art history and fine art. Over the course of four years immersed in the study of art, Marina delved into the works of countless artists and scholars who sought to unravel the essence of art. Yet, despite her tireless pursuit, a definitive and satisfying answer eluded her. However, this search for clarity led her to a captivating realization—the intricate relationship between culture and art and their profound influence on one another throughout the ages. Recognizing the transformative power of culture on artistic expression, Marina decided to embark on a new academic endeavor. She enrolled in a Master’s program in the Anthropology of Art at the Chinese National Academy of Arts in Beijing. This discipline allowed her to delve into the depths of diverse cultures, unveiling the unique elements that shape artistic practices across the globe.

In addition to her passion for art and her insatiable curiosity, Marina harbored another dream—to become a teacher. A decade ago, she took a leap of faith and moved to the United States, embarking on a new chapter of her life dedicated to studying Art Education at the prestigious Academy of Art University in San Francisco.

As a teaching artist, Marina creates an engaging and nurturing environment, fostering a love for art while empowering her students to explore their own creative potential. She encourages experimentation, self-expression, and critical thinking, guiding her students on a journey of discovery and personal growth through artistic exploration.

Marina’s artistic journey and diverse background in art have shaped her unique artistic style, which is evident in her paintings. Her works showcase not only her deep understanding of art but also her willingness to experiment and integrate various painting techniques into the traditional realm of Chinese brush painting. By blending traditional Chinese brush painting techniques with her own creative exploration, Marina’s paintings embody a fusion of tradition and innovation. Her art reflects her ability to embrace and respect the rich heritage of Chinese brush painting while infusing it with her personal interpretation and artistic vision.