Each month, the City of Alhambra features a new artist’s exhibition at City Hall. These exhibitions highlight local artists in Los Angeles and in the San Gabriel Valley. In November, the featured artist is Linda Lee, a Chinese artist who takes her inspiration from animals in nature.
Around Alhambra: Can you share a little bit about yourself and your background?
Linda Lee: Ever since I was a child, painting has been my joy. During my youth I studied with mentors in Yunnan, China. When I came to the United States I worked as a Sample Maker for many high-end fashion companies. After an injury, I took rest and stopped working. While not working, I attended an exhibition and a friend introduced me to the artist which reignited my inspiration. Soon after, I began creating and participated in over 20 exhibitions.
One special day, July 7th, 2017, my paintings were displayed in Los Angeles Art and Calligraphy Artists exhibitions, featuring 12 flowers and birds theme in Los Angeles Art and Calligraphy Artists. For six years straight, I joined the International Heritage of Yilong and Mei Zhi, winning Gold Cups and Certificates each time. I also participated in Qiandu Wine Lightning Ceremony, displaying art themed around the zodiac animals.
AA: How did you get into art?
Lee: My family, especially my aunts, encouraged me to pursue art and create every day.
AA: What’s the inspiration behind your work?
Lee: Nature is my biggest inspiration and the support of my family and friends. I visit the Los Angeles Zoo and Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden to paint and often give small paintings to children.
AA: Can you describe the central theme or message behind your exhibition in City Hall?
Lee: Peacocks and bears are the central theme.
AA: Are there any pieces in the exhibition that are particularly meaningful to you?
Lee: The peacock art pieces are particularly meaningful to me as they symbolize luck, beauty and remind me of my hometown Yunan, China. My friends lovingly refer to me as the Peacock Queen.
AA: Are there any particular artists, movements, or experiences that influenced this exhibition?
Lee: Deepest gratitude to Andrew Zhao (Lu An), Chris Ho and Johnson for inspiring and encouraging me to create.
AA: Is there anything else you’d like to share about yourself or your artwork?
Lee: I would like to continue making a name out of my artwork and my goal is to share my art across the world.
Lee’s artwork will be on display in the Alhambra City Hall lobby until December.
