Tag: arts

Curated by Webson Ji

Collective Marks and Strokes of Imagination

Collective Marks and Strokes of Imagination marks a pivotal milestone in the five-year journey of Li Tang Community since its founding in early 2020. Following Echos of Home, the community’s third-anniversary retrospective held on Roosevelt Island, New York, this exhibition continues to embody Li Tang Community’s core values: fostering visibility, dialogue, and connection among Asian diaspora creatives. Through a diverse range of artworks and performances, the 5th Anniversary Exhibition presents a portrait of an organic, evolving community shaped by mutual support, growth, and a shared vision.

As the founder of Li Tang Community, I have always seen it as a living ecosystem. The word “community” alone may no longer fully capture its essence. This collective is not determined by the will of a few individuals; it is an external manifestation of a shared collective consciousness. Li Tang Community is not a space for competition, but rather a neutral, inclusive, and open environment—a shelter built by and for the creative efforts of the Asian diaspora.

I also draw inspiration from Marc Augé’s concept of “non-places,” as outlined in his book Non-Places: Introduction to an Anthropology of Supermodernity. Li Tang Community does not emphasize individual identity or singular presence—many of our members are already accomplished professionals in their respective fields. Instead, it values the fluid identities that emerge in temporary gatherings, and the potential for connection and co-creation in those moments. What matters most is how these encounters happen—and how they enable us to redefine ourselves within a collective context.

Li Tang Community is not interested in forming an elite club or hierarchical structure. It is more like an open playground—a space for dialogue, collaboration, and joyful exchange for all Asian diaspora creatives.

The artist selection for this exhibition reflects Li Tang Community’s ongoing commitment to openness and diversity. Artists were selected through three channels: an open call, recommendations from our partner galleries and organizations, and curatorial invitations. This collaborative process shaped a multifaceted exhibition. The show features long-standing members such as Jiannan Wu, Cheng Gong, Suki Violet Su, and Ellie Kayu Ng, who have been part of the community since early 2020. It also highlights emerging artists like Ami Park, Yang Mai, and Hannah Bang, selected through the Li Tang Community open call. Additionally, artists recommended by our community friends—including Han Qin, zzyw, Kimin Kim, and Xinan Helen Ran—broaden the platform for dialogue between artists and institutions. Finally, we invited influential artists such as Zhen Guo, Xin Song, Sin-ying Ho, Catherine Chun Hua Dong, and Sizhu Li to share their creative insights and professional experiences with the next generation.

This exhibition is also a tribute to the friends who have walked alongside Li Tang Community—thank you to Accent Sisters, A Space Gallery, Fou Gallery, RainRain Gallery, Site, Tutu Gallery, VillageOneArt, and 7s Art for helping us shape this journey together. Our deepest gratitude to THE BLANC for their generous support, helping us visualize the vision and care we’ve nurtured over the past five years.

The growth of Li Tang Community over the past five years has been made possible through the continued contributions of every member. What began as a small circle for artist interviews and news-sharing has grown into a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in New York that continues to create meaningful opportunities for Asian diaspora creatives. Created as a safe space, Li Tang Community functions as both an assembly hall for open dialogue and a quiet shelter for those seeking support. 

It is a place to gather because we care—for art, for each other, and for the stories we carry.

Text: Webson Ji, Founder & Creative Director of Li Tang Community