Chinese art exhibition opens at Stratford Public Library

Artist Yanni Chen speaks with attendees about her work during the opening reception of her Chinese art exhibition at the Stratford Public Library on Sept. 12.

The Stratford Public Library is hosting a Chinese art exhibition featuring the work of artist

Yanni Chen from Sept. 12 to Oct. 25.

Chen, who moved to Canada from China in 2017, has worked as an art educator for more

than 30 years and has held numerous exhibitions in China. This marks her first exhibition in

Canada.

In addition to Chen’s own pieces, the show includes two works by her late mother, a

respected Chinese artist. The paintings, completed in 1979 and 1994, reflect the depth and

tradition of Chinese painting and highlight the artistic legacy passed down through

generations.

Chen studied art and later moved to Canada and said the transition allowed her to devote

more time to her own creative work.

“My mother would come and look at my art and explain how to improve,” Chen said through

her translator, Louise Liu. “I would learn to be better by watching her and by her telling me

what to focus on.”

She paints in a variety of mediums including traditional Chinese, gouache, coloured lead,

acrylic and a style known as zentangle art — a blend of structures and patterns created with

curves and lines.

“Through painting in different mediums and traditions, I’ve tried to capture the flowers’

brilliance and elegance on canvas,” Chen said. “This exhibition features a rich and diverse

collection of works with fresh and distinctive themes.”

Chen said she is now exploring ways to merge Eastern traditions with modern Western

styles in her art.

Liu praised Chen’s dedication to her craft during the opening reception last Friday.

“Despite language barriers and the challenges of presenting her work in this community, she

has shown incredible courage and determination,” Liu said. “Her paintings speak a universal

language, one that transcends words and touches the heart.”

Chen thanked the Stratford Public Library for hosting the exhibition.

The public is invited to view the display in the upstairs auditorium until Oct. 25.