Art & Life with Lisa Hu Chen

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lisa Hu Chen.

Lisa, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
I graduated from college with a degree in Communications and had no idea what I wanted to do with my life. I was lucky to land a job soon after graduation, and for the next several years I enjoyed a fulfilling career in advertising, marketing and graphic design. However, my passion for design started to slowly wane and over time, I became more and more inspired to pick up my camera in order to document the days of my four kids. As a result and thanks to them, I’ve honed my craft over the last decade and officially made the switch to photography as my second career.

Can you give our readers some background on your art?
I am inspired everyday by my family. I try to make pictures that reflect my love, curiosity, and awe for them and I hope that carries through when I photograph families and people as well.

I love to make beautiful, artful pictures but I am even more fascinated by those seemingly insignificant moments that carry us throughout the day and the manner in which they connect us to the next — the mundane, messy, quiet, and especially the ones that go unseen. Those that weave together the milestones, the thread that connects each notable part of life. I strive to make pictures with intention and meaning, when I can place myself back at the exact moment and remember why it is I took it. I love the quirky and off-kilter images, ones that may not look like anything upon first glance but when paid closer attention to, gives off a spark.

The photos I make do not fall into a perfect pattern of cohesion — I have too many interests to bind me into one — and my gallery may be off-putting because of its variety. But I try very hard to create each picture with an intent that stays consistent throughout my work. My hope is that those who view my photos also appreciate the eclectic and diverse, and that they recognize that it’s coming directly from me to them, and not what I think they want to see from me.

How do you think about success, as an artist, and what do quality do you feel is most helpful?
I define success by how I feel about my work at the end of the day. I went through my 20s and early 30s feeling uncomfortable and insecure about my place in the art world, whether I even had one, and constantly doubted my commitment and value. It’s not a fun way to create.

Art is so subjective and not everyone will love what you do. That carries through in life in general and to place your value in anyone other than yourself is a set up for disappointment.

When someone loves my photo, or understands my message, or even has a strong reaction to either, it is the most amazing feeling. I appreciate feedback and cherish every compliment and word of encouragement and support. But what I’ve learned through time and experiences is, if I’m not resilient or if I don’t believe in my work from the start, then no amount of love or accolades will allow me to grow, improve and properly define my path toward success.

What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
Instagram is my gallery and visual diary. If one of my images really moves you or elicits a strong emotional response, please let me know! I love connecting with others. So many of my greatest clients and new friends connected with me through social media.

Contact Info:

• Website: lisahuchen.com
• Phone: 415.971.5700
• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lotusandnovember/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lisahuchenphotography
• Other: https://www.instagram.com/lisahuchen/

Image Credit:
Lisa Hu Chen

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