Artist Statement: The design of my piano is modified from a traditional fabric design of Taiwan. The reason I choose this material is because I believe that the fabric design perfectly describes what my culture is. Adding the combination of a Western instrument with the vivid color of Asian style, the piano presents the balance of different cultures being brought together. This is my second painted piano. The first one was done in 2012 and was exhibited the same year at the Bevier Gallery in Rochester, NY. However, people are not encouraged to touch artworks in a gallery, so my first piano was only displayed as a beautiful artwork. I am the only person who knows its voice. This time around, I also get to share the wonderful relationship you can have through the voice of the piano as it sings to all of you. Thanks to Sing for Hope, there is a professional group taking care of the pianos, so that everyone who sees the piano can also have fun and enjoy it. I believe a piano is a piano only when it is played. My piano is not just a beautiful art piece to look at, but also an instrument with its own voice and personality.
Wen-Hua Chen comes from Taiwan, and this is her first time joining the project as Volunteer Artist for Sing for Hope. Just before coming to New York City, Wendy had quit her job and was at the crossroads of her future. One of her artist friends in Rochester, NY, messaged her the information about Sing for Hope Pianos at that same time. She immediately decided to give it a try, and this began the wonderful journey of being part of the Sing for Hope artists group. At the studio, she is learning from fellow artists with different styles and thoughts, being encouraged by and sometimes getting advice from them. She is improving her skill and knowledge of art materials. The Sing for Hope Pianos project has led her to become a better artist. Two years ago, when graduating from art school, Wendy wished to be a famous artist who showed artwork to the whole world. During the years since then, she has been hesitant, gotten jobs like everybody else, been frustrated, and even doubted whether she was still going to be an artist. Thanks to her family, friends, and people around her, she is still here as an artist. And what she wished for is now happening. What's even better is--she has Sing for Hope helping her bring one of her best works to all of you!
