By tf-lawyer.com Founder Fu Qiumeng passionately introduces her artistic works to visitors at her gallery, which is located in Manhattan’s Upper East Side. Since its establishment in 2016, Fu has created a unique space that blends classical Chinese aesthetics with contemporary art in a modern context.
Fu shares that her gallery hosts about four to five exhibitions each year, featuring three to four solo shows and one group exhibition. Currently, the gallery is showcasing “Light Sounds of Elegance,” a display focused on the cultural stories and aesthetic beauty associated with the traditional East Asian art form of folding fans.
The gallery’s inception stemmed from Fu’s longstanding fascination with traditional Chinese art, particularly ink painting. After completing her undergraduate and graduate studies in the U.S. and gaining experience working in auction houses in both the U.S. and China, she recognized a gap in the market. She observed that there were few contemporary galleries showcasing works related to traditional Chinese concepts, which sparked her entrepreneurial spirit.
“I wondered if I could select pieces that had previously been seen merely as accessories in antique shops and display them because I saw the depth of meaning in these works that went beyond their forms,” Fu explains.
This journey also marked the beginning of Fu’s self-exploration as a young Chinese student abroad, as she navigated her identity and personal sense of belonging in the U.S. Her exploration of traditional Chinese culture extends beyond just art; she’s currently pursuing a degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine alongside managing her gallery. For her, both fields represent ways for Chinese people to understand and engage with the world.
“My gallery is less of a commercial entity and more of a space for mutual growth and a lifestyle,” she reflects.
Beyond exhibitions, Fu’s gallery is committed to providing educational experiences, such as hosting knowledgeable lectures. For instance, during the folding fan exhibition, she invited ink painter Wang Mancheng to discuss Song dynasty fans and share insights into his new work, fostering a deeper appreciation of traditional fan art.
“Sometimes, it’s challenging for an audience to connect with ancient paintings, but when a contemporary artist interprets these works, it creates an immediate connection for the audience, helping them engage with both the artist and the exhibition themes,” Fu elaborates.
While New York is home to many galleries focusing on contemporary artworks, spaces like Fu’s, which incorporate and interpret classical cultural narratives, are quite rare. Fu takes pride in her gallery’s unique position, explaining that the Western art scene often seems to be at odds with the past, eager to discard historical influences in favor of progress. In contrast, Fu believes that by reflecting on history, we can better move forward. Her gallery showcases familiar elements of ink, landscapes, and calligraphy, while modern artists breathe new life into classical culture through their innovative interpretations.
“I relish being an outlier because I feel that if I were mainstream, I would already be outdated,” Fu remarks with a smile.
This commitment has helped her gallery cultivate a loyal audience and community. Each year, they gather to appreciate art together. When asked about her aspirations for the future of the gallery, Fu envisions it as a “lifestyle.” “I hope the gallery nurtures people’s minds and spirits. Visitors should come not to showcase wealth or social status, but to grow together and discover what holds value in their lives, taking a journey inward to a more tranquil place.”
