When Xue Qi (shae-chee) Li began studying art at the Sally Studio Art Center a few years ago, she never imagined having her work exhibited someday. Painting was a newfound passion for the 38-year old mother of three, but not one she “dared set any goals for,” she said.
Now, after many hours spent honing her craft, Li’s work is part of a special art show at Jericho Library called “Between Us” featuring nine women artists from Syosset or Jericho. The works in the show explore the artists’ stories of motherhood, friendship and womanhood. The show runs until March 30.
“I feel very honored to be part of this exhibit,” Li said. “It’s a rare opportunity for all of us, and we’re excited to share our paintings with new audiences.”
At Sally Studio, each student’s work was carefully evaluated before being selected for the exhibit. The process required mastering new techniques and meeting rigorous standards.
“The project was very difficult for us as non-professional painters, and that’s also what made it an interesting learning experience,” Li said.
To prepare for the exhibit’s portrait theme, Li and her fellow artists studied the portraiture process, discussed one another’s work, and reflected on the theme of “Between Us,” which explores different generations, cultures and relationships.
Li said she likes to start out with an idea or feeling for a piece, but that even once she has it there’s the challenge of transmuting her feelings onto a canvas.
“Sometimes the hardest part is knowing how to start the painting,” Li said, noting that she relies on technique and encouragement from her group as she works. “Along with the challenges there are times where I feel completely immersed in the creative process, and I especially enjoy those moments.”
Li, a Syosset resident who had previous careers running a catering business and working in finance and as a flight attendant before becoming “a full-time mom,” said her long-deferred dream of painting became a reality when she met her teacher, Sally Feng.
“At the moment of meeting Sally, I felt my connection with art had returned,” Li said.
Their relationship and work together has deepened in the years since. Li expressed gratitude for both Feng and her group of fellow artists in helping her grow as a painter and create new works for the show.
“Having such a supportive and passionate teacher and friend like Sally inspires us,” Li said. “She provides a rich teaching experience, and we all encourage each other with our work. I’m happy to be part of this group.”
Li’s oil paintings in the exhibit feature rich color and expressive brushwork, exploring what she describes as “complex feelings” of connection. They include a colorful portrait of her daughter, a reflective birthday self-portrait, and a vibrant acrylic painting of a stylish “modern lady.”
“Every piece reflects a different moment or emotion,” Li said. “Art allows me to express emotions that are hard to express with words.”
As she continues to make time for painting amid a busy life, Li said her goal for her art—even with her first exhibit under her belt—is still simple.
“I want to enjoy painting,” she said.
