Today we’d like to introduce you to Yuchen Lu.
Hi Yuchen, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Yuchen Lu is a visual artist, She finds inspiration from nature, mythologies, fairytales, and dreams; stemming from a fascination of fantasy since her childhood. Yuchen’s art begins with hand-drawn ink details, finished with digital techniques for a modern mixed-media style.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Growing up my family always has vases in our home. My grandparents are artisans from a town famous for porcelain, they fled the Cultural Revolution seeking better opportunities, eventually settling in Beijing where I was born. My childhood story is nothing special. Like most kids in China, I spent most of my childhood and teenage years in school. My father, recognizing my artistic talent, he shared stories behind the vases in our home, he hoped I would continue our family’s creative legacy. Yet, as a Gen Z artist, I was drawn to contemporary art and media, craving new forms of expression.
Moving to the US to study at the School of Visual Arts marked a turning point. It was a difficult leap for me. I faced cultural dissonance and uncertainty. But in this city of constant arrival, I was one among many—each of us carrying our own dream. Over four years in art school I’ve learned so much, from mastering fundamental techniques to exploring my own artistic practice. It pushed me to re-think my voice as an artist. People around the me and the city also inspired me a lot. My work now merges the traditions of my heritage with a modern lens, exploring themes of surreal and reinvention.
I draw inspiration from nature, mythology, and dreams—sources that feel both timeless and personal. My practice explores the harmony between tradition and modern life, blending elements of traditional Asian craftsmanship with contemporary forms and themes. I’m drawn to soft and harmonious colors palette, creating a sense of quiet beauty and reflection. I want to create images that feel enduring and gentle. For me, art is a way of offering beauty to the world—a moment of calm, a sense of wonder. I also find joy in the creative process itself; it’s where I feel most present. I hope my work resonate with those navigating their own sense of belonging.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I guess what people like my work might be the unique sense of Eastern rhythm in my image, or the subtle mix of Eastern and Western sensibilities. I tend to use soft and luminous colors, intricate and refined lines — they often present in my work. Many times, I depict subjects that don’t have a clear identity, rivers, sheep, mushrooms, and various plants — things without a specific nationality or tied to a particular time. There are also mythological elements, which help to create a mysterious, dreamlike atmosphere. I often portray symbols from my hometown — goldfish, bamboo, such particular Asian motifs frequently appear in my work. In terms of form, I draw inspiration from traditional Chinese ink painting, the highly linear aesthetics of 1980s Chinese picture books, early 20th-century art movements, and Japanese art — all of which have influenced my visual language and personal aesthetic.
I enjoy seeing my work appear in public spaces — there’s a quiet satisfaction in witnessing something that once existed only in my sketchbook as an idea come to life in the real world. I think for anyone, in any field, there’s a deep sense of fulfillment when seeing the idea lands. I find joy in commercial collaborations with brands or institutions. I like when art takes shape in the context of real-world applications, seeing it brings a commercial value and liked by more audience.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://yuchenartt.cargo.site
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yuchenartt/
Image Credits
Yuchen Lu
