Light Within
- Qinghong Wei, PhD
- 14 hours ago
- 2 min read
If ten years ago anyone told me that I would one day have my own art show, I would not believe it. Back then, I was just a beginner who was fascinated by watercolor but at the same time utterly scared by this unruly medium. I didn't think I had much talent for it, and I thought I probably would quit in a month.
But I didn’t. Two years later in 2018, after days of hiking in the rocky mountains, a voice came up from within and it was very clear – "Pursue art full time." I listened to that voice and chose the path less travelled.
It wasn’t an easy path, but after ten years since I doodled this childlike picture you see above, here I am in 2026, still painting. The best part? I am finding more freedom, magic, joy and peace in watercolor, and also in my own life.
Earlier this year, my friend Vera told me that Union County Public Library was looking to feature local artists and encouraged me to apply. I did and I was super grateful when the library responded back with a big and warm Yes! So here comes my very first solo art show that I never dreamed of! I am greatly honored that for the entire month of September, the library will present my art exhibit, titled “Light Within”. The exhibit will include a body of work that I have been building over the years, that invites viewers on a watercolor journey into luminosity, tenderness, and sacredness in the ordinary.
Looking back at these ten years, I really think it is Grit, Grace, and Great Community that have made all this happen. I want to give back to our beloved community by offering a FREE art class, "A Natural Way to Pencil Sketch". The class will be held at Union County Public Library (303 Hunt Martin St, Blairsville) from 2 to 3 pm on Thursday Sep 3rd. Please bring a drawing/sketch pad, a pencil and eraser if you have. I will also provide supplies for those who don't for free. RSVP is not required. We do have limited seating, so it will be first come first serve. After the class I invite you to stay around, view my art exhibit and chat more.
Years back when I listened to that inner voice and pursued art full time, it was both exciting and scary. Perhaps just like facing a blank piece of watercolor paper. No matter how skilled I get, watercolor remains unruly and wild, and that is why I love it. Right now standing at this ten year mark, I realize,
it is in opening to such a wild ride that I have learned about Trust.
That for me is one of the greatest Gifts from this journey.
In Love, Gratitude, and Trust,
Qinghong
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