Since her academic sojourn, artist Phyllis Yao has embarked on a remarkable artistic pilgrimage, including a transformative stint as an artist-in-residence at the Lijiang Studio in the Yunnan province of China. Her work has graced galleries and exhibitions in New York, Philadelphia, Colorado, and Rhode Island. Phyllis is not just an artist; she is a creative force, channeling her diverse experiences into her work.
Her multifaceted identity is a kaleidoscope of influences. From the rhythm and rhyme of hip hop to the raw expression of graffiti, to the melodious strains of Chinese pop songs and the culinary art of crafting dumplings from scratch. These passions are rooted in her unique upbringing, having split her time between the vibrant streets of New York City and the evolving landscapes of Guiyang, a small city in China, these locations helped cultivate her artistic vision.
Beyond her artistic endeavors, her interests are as eclectic as her artistic portfolio. She is an accomplished pianist, a dedicated explorer of cosmic wonders, a connoisseur of Chinese tea art, and a loving caretaker of her papaya and lemon trees. Her life is a tapestry woven from myriad threads of creativity and curiosity.
Non-fiction literature and Chinese poetry, the beauty of landscapes, the expressive power of art, the humor and irony of memes, the cadence of music, and even the whimsy of doodles are also counted as influences to Phyllis. Yet, what propels her to create is the profound emotional resonance she seeks to convey. Her art is an expression of feelings, an evocation of emotions that transcend storytelling. Phyllis revels in the process of finding the perfect colors and materials to breathe life into her ideas, resulting in a body of work that can appear vastly different from one piece to the next. This dynamic approach keeps her in a perpetual state of artistic exploration and evolution.
At the core of Phyllis Yao's artistic journey lies a profound exploration of growth, maternal love, and relationships. Her work is a testament to the power of art to delve into the most profound aspects of the human experience, to provoke thought, and to foster connections.Community holds a special place in Phyllis's heart. She is deeply committed to nurturing her artistic community, where she thrives among fellow creatives who share her passion and dedication. Equally important is her role within the Asian American community in the United States, a cherished part of her identity. She actively participates in both communities, celebrating her heritage and connecting with fellow artists through the power of social media, studio visits, and gallery exhibitions. These connections enrich her artistic journey and imbue her work with a sense of belonging and purpose that resonates far beyond the canvas.
A proud graduate of the Rhode Island School of Design, she emerged with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Painting, and her talents were recognized with the prestigious Florence Leif Award—an early testament to her exceptional abilities.
A selection of Phyllis Yao’s drawings are included in “Love’s Other Name” a show of drawings and works on paper at The Spite Haus in Philadelphia. The show is curated by Opal Mae Ong.