Yuan Ru Art Center in Bellevue is a space where contemporary art meets healing and positivity, offering an immersive experience that goes beyond the visual. Guided by a philosophy rooted in the transformative power of art, curator Julie Hsieh creates exhibitions that inspire and uplift, fostering meaningful connections between art, culture and the local community. Bellevue Lifestyle had the privilege of sitting down with Julie to learn more about her vision and the gallery’s impact...
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What is the guiding philosophy behind Yuan Ru Art Center's curation?
As the curator of Yuan Ru Art Center in Bellevue, I aim to showcase contemporary artworks that inspire and soothe, creating a lasting positive impact. My background as a family doctor has shown me art's healing power for both creators and viewers. In curating exhibitions, which has become an art form for me, I seek pieces that evoke happiness, transforming both my gallery and your home with positivity and inspiration.
How do you discover and select artists whose work aligns with the gallery’s vision?
Discovering and selecting artists is an organic, multi-faceted process. I’ve found many talented local artists in the Pacific Northwest, met at gallery events, referred by friends or seen on social media. Sometimes, I seek specific genres for exhibitions. For our current Lunar New Year exhibit, I curated ink artworks that capture the energy of a new year.
Can you share the process of planning and executing an exhibition from start to finish?
Each exhibition, while seamless and beautiful, requires months to a year of preparation. This includes selecting artists, organizing artworks and preparing promotional images. As the exhibition date approaches, artists deliver their works to my gallery. This allows me to visualize the placement of each piece in my 5,000 sq ft space. The installation process then transforms Yuan Ru Art Center into its final, stunning form ready for the public.
How does the gallery foster meaningful connections between art, culture and the local community?
Art and culture are intertwined, connecting communities beyond boundaries and nationalities. Bellevue is renowned for its diversity, and Yuan Ru Art Center embraces both international and local Pacific Northwest artists, offering a vibrant platform for exhibitions and community gatherings. I also invite musicians from diverse backgrounds to perform at exhibition openings, creating an immersive experience that celebrates the many forms of art.
What has been the most rewarding or memorable exhibition you’ve curated so far?
The inaugural exhibition "Transcending Boundaries" marked the opening of Yuan Ru Art Center in Bellevue in October 2022, showcasing five contemporary artists from Taiwan. This premier exhibition was memorable and vibrant, as friends, supporters and community leaders gathered to celebrate the arts. Bellevue Mayor Lynne Robinson attended and spoke about the new Bel-Red Arts District, coinciding with my gallery's launch. This milestone exhibition signified my gallery's expansion to the international stage, following the establishment of Yuan Ru Gallery in Taipei in 2017.
How can readers learn more?
Feel free to visit yuanru.gallery to learn more! Follow Yuan Ru Art Center – Bellevue on Facebook and Instagram to stay updated on exhibitions and events. The gallery is open on weekends from 12:00-4:00 pm and weekdays by appointment, with opening receptions for new exhibitions open to the public. If you have any questions, email us at info@yuanru.gallery. We look forward to welcoming you soon at Yuan Ru Art Center!
"I seek pieces that evoke happiness, transforming both my gallery and your home with positivity and inspiration"