Modern Asian: Q/A with Fong Min Liao

Fong Min Liao is a Chinese-American painter born in San Francisco, who currently spends her time between Los Angeles and New York. Since she was a young child, art has been a powerful means of expression. With a keen interest in psychology, emotional intelligence and beauty in its essential and simplest form, she takes her understanding of humanity and the heart as inspiration for her paintings.

She seeks connection through her work by consciously embracing her femininity and immersing herself into an intimate and vulnerable mood that drives her creative process.

Read our mini-interview with Fong below.

How has your Asian heritage shaped you?

Growing up, I was ashamed of my Chinese heritage and did not like my Asian features. Back then, I didn't know how to love myself and I was blinded by society's conditioning. It is only in these last 5 years that I started to embrace who I am and what I represent. Today, I am so proud to be Chinese and of my culture's history and heritage. It greatly influences my way of being and my work. There is also so much beauty and tradition in Chinese heritage, which I love learning about and adapting into my own modern day life.

What's the greatest piece of wisdom ever shared with you by your parents or grandparents?

Honestly, I was always a rebel and never listened to my parents. They've since ceased to give me advice haha. But, their work ethic inspires me and I think that comes with being immigrants, which I have so much respect and gratitude for.

How do you deal with racial stereotypes?

I don't pay attention to them. But I am all about breaking boundaries. I seek to live an unconventional life that goes against stereotypes in general. This comes down to the choices I make in my daily life.

How do you define beauty?

I see beauty as a way of being and non-being and can be interpreted in many ways and forms. However, I think the purest form of beauty is being able to love and accept yourself and having compassion for others.

How do we move the conversation forward?

We need to continue to share our stories.

 To learn more about Fong or view her work, visit https://fongminliao.com/.