True honesty with oneself is a journey both daunting and liberating. In the sanctuary of my studio, the canvas becomes a mirror, reflecting the depths of my soul and the shadows I often hide from the world. Through each brushstroke, I confront these hidden facets, acknowledging their existence and embracing their influence on my being.

This process of creation is not merely an exorcism of darkness; it is also a celebration of light. My art weaves together the profound duality of human experience—where shadows coexist with illumination, and despair dances with hope. It is within this delicate balance that the essence of my work is born.

Each painting is a testament to the complexity of the human spirit. The darkness is not something to be feared, but rather understood and integrated. In accepting the shadows, I find the strength to also honor the light within. This duality is what makes us whole, what gives depth and meaning to our existence.

Through my art, I invite viewers to embark on their own journey of self-discovery, to find solace in their shadows and rejoice in their light. For it is in this honest embrace of our full selves that we truly come alive, allowing our inner worlds to shine brightly on the canvas of life.

Liza Chan 11/25/22 Liza Chan 11/25/22

impact of war

The beginning of my artistic journey was profoundly reshaped by the upheaval and devastation brought by the war in Ukraine, instigated by Russia. This conflict has dramatically altered my vision of the world and my means of expression in art. The sheer brutality and senselessness of war force us to confront the fragility of our existence and the darkness that humanity is capable of.

Before the war, my art was an exploration of the abstract, the ethereal. But the onset of conflict brought with it a seismic shift. Witnessing the devastation and suffering firsthand or through the stories of those affected ignited a profound need to capture these raw emotions on canvas. The horror, the loss, the resilience—it all demanded to be told, to be seen, and to be felt.

War forces a reevaluation of priorities and a confrontation with the stark reality of human cruelty. The violence, the displacement, the shattered lives—it is a testament to the worst aspects of human nature. Yet, in the midst of this darkness, there is also a flicker of hope, a testament to human resilience and the unyielding spirit to survive and rebuild.

The war in Ukraine has infused my art with a new purpose. Each stroke of the brush, each hue of the paint, is a silent scream against the horrors of war, a cry for peace, and a homage to those who have suffered and those who continue to endure. The canvases have become a battlefield of emotions, where pain and hope clash, where despair and resilience coalesce.

This war has taught me that art is not just a form of expression but a powerful tool for resistance and remembrance. It is a way to document the undocumentable, to give voice to the voiceless, and to ensure that the horrors are not forgotten. Through my art, I seek to bear witness, to remind, and to inspire change.

The impact of war is all-encompassing. It is not just the physical destruction but the psychological and emotional scars that linger long after the last shot is fired. My paintings strive to capture this unseen trauma, to provide a space for reflection and healing, and to challenge viewers to confront the realities of conflict.

As I delve deeper into my artistic journey, I realize that the war has irrevocably changed me. It has stripped away any illusions and laid bare the stark truths of our world. But it has also instilled a renewed determination to use my art as a beacon of hope, a call for peace, and a testament to the enduring human spirit.

War is a profound teacher, though its lessons are harsh and unforgiving. It teaches the value of peace, the preciousness of life, and the strength of the human soul. Through my art, I hope to convey these lessons, to spark dialogue, and to contribute to a world where such atrocities are a distant memory, never to be repeated.

Liza Chan 6/15/22 Liza Chan 6/15/22

about my journey

In a world where expressing emotions often meets misunderstanding and judgment, paintings become the sole honest means of communication. From early childhood, emotions were suppressed, and natural reactions to pain and joy were seen as weaknesses. This led to layers of trauma and pain that veiled the true essence.

Only when standing on the brink of inner collapse did it become clear: to overcome this pain, one must not fight it but embrace it, showing oneself love and care. In this process, the canvas becomes a mirror of the soul, reflecting all the hidden layers and allowing them to be experienced again with tenderness and attention.

The world imposes its standards, forcing individuals to be "not too much of this" or "not too much of that." Many are familiar with the feeling of having to please others, staying in the shadows, and hiding their true selves. But when the burning desire to grow and evolve outweighs the fear of others' opinions, the journey to true self-expression begins.

This journey is a continuous practice, requiring discipline and a willingness to face discomfort. Each work is a step towards a better version of oneself, a version to be proud of. The decision to be oneself is a simple choice but far from easy. In each brushstroke lies sincerity; in each color, an acknowledgment of one's vulnerability.

Today, there is no longer fear in expressing feelings and thoughts. Life becomes truly one's own, filled with genuine moments of love, pain, and fear. Vulnerability carries the risk of undesired consequences and rejections, but it holds true beauty—in the willingness to accept these outcomes and find new strength in them.

Every human being desires to be seen, heard, and loved. True connection is possible only through genuine vulnerability. Let this journey be a source of inspiration, allowing each person to experience the depth of their existence through art.