Rachel Letts ’22
Andy Li ‘22 is September’s Artist of the Month for his ongoing work in the practice of 2D Design. Li explains that his artistic interests root to his childhood as he has “been drawing ever since I was a kid. To me, it’s therapeutic. It’s one of the rare times that I can sit down and do something without distraction.” By following the work of Japanese architect Tadao Ando, Li was inspired to begin his own artistic journey.
One of his most recent pieces, “Smoke” was featured in last year’s issue of Epolitan. Li says that “Smoke” is his favorite piece to date because of the effort that he put into it and the subsequent value it holds for him. In terms of his artistic process, Li describes that he aims to highlight the parts of life that sometimes go unnoticed by “focusing on bringing out the innate beauty of the mundane.”
Li will continue to develop his personal style this year by taking 2D design III with David Sigel, US Art Department Chair. Since the beginning of his Upper School career, starting with Foundations of Arts, Li has been mentored by Sigel. When asked about Li’s development as an artist, Sigel says, “Oftentimes when we’re creating artwork we get caught up in thinking where to start, causing us to struggle, but Andy has found the confidence and trust in his ability to execute well composed and finished pieces of art.” Sigel continues by describing Li as a “talented artist, with a well-planned approach that effectively articulates his artistic voice.”
To describe Li’s artwork, classmate Ned Meisel ‘22 says, “He has a particular style that centers around a neutral palette and minimalist design, without being afraid of color. His art is really realistic, always paying attention to small details even if the piece appears simplistic.” To further articulate Li’s focus on detail, Meisel recalls seeing Li’s piece for Dora Khayatt last year thinking it was a photo in passing because of its realistic quality.
Another classmate, William Sargent ‘22 adds that Li’s art “doesn’t feel like it’s an interpretation of the world through someone else’s eyes, but rather an analysis of people and their coexistence.” Sargent also says that Li is particularly gifted in his ability to focus on detail, allowing him to create pieces that are very architectural, and analytical. Li attributes this talent to his artistic process saying that he “often fixates on one specific point, unable to move on until he has perfected it.”
Li’s artistic skill extends beyond 2D design as he is also passionate about photography. Susan Coote, CCC Gallery Director says, “His photos do a beautiful job of considering composition and color while maintaining his minimalist style.” Sigel affirmed this by recalling a photo that Li took of his father while working on an architectural project together that captured his work ethic.
Sigel continues praising Li’s multifaceted artistic talents, claiming that “his prowess is that much more notable given his endeavors both inside and outside the classroom.” This idea has especially taken shape in his exploration of architecture. When asked about his future plans of study, Li says that he hopes to pursue Architecture. Sigel says he is “incredibly proud of how far he has come as a creative being as well as an intellectual and I know he has a bright future ahead of him.”