Meet Chia Hsiu Liu

We recently connected with Chia Hsiu Liu and have shared our conversation below.

Chia Hsiu, so many exciting things to discuss, we can’t wait. Thanks for joining us and we appreciate you sharing your wisdom with our readers. So, maybe we can start by discussing optimism and where your optimism comes from?

I never consider myself an optimistic person, but my painting has been described as optimistic many times, which I found very interesting. But I do think I’m positive when it comes to painting because painting is an unlimited and moldable art form. Anyone can draw or paint, and that openness gives me a profound sense of creative freedom. I used to lack the motivation to work hard until I decided to become an artist, which happened during my undergraduate years. I learned about The Birth of Tragedy by philosopher Nietzsche by chance and got fully attracted to how he connected art and human life. He viewed life as inherently tragic, with art serving as a veil that both reveals and conceals that truth.

For me, being called optimistic isn’t a compliment, but an attitude, a way you see life. It’s not about blind positivity, but having a good eye that could bring your mind solutions for various circumstances.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

My name is Chia Hsiu Liu, I was born in Taoyuan, Taiwan. I moved to Baltimore in 2023 to pursue an MFA in Painting at the Maryland Institute College of Art. I’ve been based in Baltimore ever since. The cityscape of Baltimore reminds me of my hometown Taoyuan, and inspires me to paint a series of works about landscape. My paintings are abstract, vibrant, and full of dynamic. I try to capture the energy of the cities I live in, translating it onto canvas through color blocks, brushstrokes, grids, and lines. A deep sense of connection and nostalgia for my surroundings is essential to my process, it guides me and allows me to immerse myself in painting.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

The three qualities I value most are persistence, the ability to take action on a plan, and the commitment to stick with an idea over time. I’m still at the early stages of my journey as an artist, so the advice I can offer is mostly based on my academic experience, especially for those considering an MFA.

Frequent critique is essential for any artist, and graduate school is one of the best environments to develop consistency, discipline, and the practical skills needed to enter the art world. My advice to young artists is to actively seek out opportunities—don’t wait for them to come to you. Reach out to people, attend events, and be someone who contributes.
Say yes to new experiences, even if you’re not fully confident yet. For example, I once applied for a museum internship focused on grant writing. It wasn’t directly related to making art, but it taught me a valuable skill for sustaining an artistic career after school. Most importantly, stay open-minded, you never know which experiences will become meaningful to your practice.

Is there a particular challenge you are currently facing?

My current challenge is finding a job. For many young artists just out of school, being a full-time artist isn’t immediately sustainable. I’m still searching for work that aligns with my skills and interests. Ideally, I hope to find a position related to my major in painting, but I’m also open to roles that connect with my other experiences, such as event organizing and grant writing.

Fortunately, I’m part of a team with friends who collaborate on events and exhibitions. This has helped me stay focused, keep improving, and maintain meaningful connections while navigating the job search.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.chiahsiuliu.art/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kiokopus/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chia-hsiu-liu-bb7680301/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@chiapudding8

Image Credits

Photo by Sadeq Alkhoori
Photo by Summer Elliott