We were lucky to catch up with WENDI MEN recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi WENDI, thanks for joining us today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?

Ever since I was a little kid, I’ve been drawn to the magic of creating art. I can vividly remember turning my primary school textbooks into a canvas of doodles and cartoon sketches. Back then, I didn’t think much of it; it was just something I loved to do.

But it was during my high school days in the UK that everything clicked. After school, you’d always find me either in the art studio or holed up in my bedroom, completely lost in the world of drawings and paintings. It was more than just a hobby; it became my sanctuary. That was the time I knew that I wanted to pursue a creative path professionally.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I am an artist based in Queens, New York. My work seeks to capture the soul, the life force, of plants in extreme conditions. My artistic focus revolves around the belief that every plant possesses a soul akin to that of a human, and through my work, I want to re-enchant the natural world in our all-too-human-centric era by capturing their impermanence, resilience, and vitality.

I work with large canvases and, in the process of painting, channel the energy of my subjects via full-bodied actions. Through spontaneous and gestural marks, charged and lyrical lines, dynamic yet poised compositions, I strive to imbue the image with a sense of movement and time.

Originally from China, I pursued studies in Studio Art and Buddhism Art History in the UK before establishing myself as an artist in the vibrant community of Queens, New York. This unique blend of cultural influences informs and enriches my artistic perspective, contributing to the creation of work that transcends boundaries and resonates with a universal audience.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

Being an artist offers a profound opportunity for self-discovery. Within the studio, I find the freedom to express my innermost emotions, prompting me to confront fears, hesitations, and anxieties. Constantly questioning my genuine interests and value system leads me to navigate the realms of the unknown. This journey of self-exploration has not only deepened my understanding of myself but has also cultivated a network of supportive friends who resonate with shared values and interests. The most rewarding aspect of being an artist lies in this transformative journey of self-awareness and the meaningful connections forged along the way.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

My goal is always the same: I want to keep making art until my 80s or 90s.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.wendimen.com
• Instagram: wendi_men