Serendipity: The Art of Nellie Chao — A Solo Exhibition Opening on 9/6 at CCACC Art Gallery

The CCACC Art Gallery is delighted to present the solo exhibition "Serendipity: The Art of Nellie Chao," on view from September 6 to October 31, 2025. The exhibition will feature more than fifty of Ms. Nellie Chao's works, including traditional Chinese ink painting, calligraphy, watercolor, as well as smaller-scale PoMo and collage creations—demonstrating a wide-ranging style that is both diverse and innovative.

The opening reception will be held on September 13 at 2:00 p.m. Visitors are invited to preview the exhibition before the reception and, on the day of the opening, meet the artist in person to gain deeper insight into her creative journey.

Among the works on display, the Watercolor on Gold Board series stands out most prominently. The interplay of golden surfaces and bold colors creates an effect at once lavish and profound. The calligraphy section features both semi-cursive script and standard script, with strokes that are powerful yet resonant. Particularly striking are the small collage pieces from the Kimono Series, which showcase the elegance of traditional East Asian attire through intricate design and refined execution.

Nellie Chao was born in Shanghai, China, and received her education in Hong Kong, Singapore, and the United States. Her journey into Chinese brush painting and calligraphy began in the early 1990s, during which she studied under the guidance of master painters and calligraphers.

In addition to her own artistic practice, Ms. Chao is devoted to promoting Chinese art. She has held numerous solo and group exhibitions, and has led workshops in Maryland, Virginia, and Florida. She is also frequently invited to give lectures and live demonstrations at schools, colleges, nonprofit organizations, and art festivals across the Greater Washington area, including the internationally renowned National Cherry Blossom Festival.

She is a member of the Sumi-e Society of America, Inc., Potomac Valley Watercolorists, and several local art organizations. She also serves as Vice President of the CCACC Art Club of Chinese Painting & Calligraphy. Her works are part of private collections both in the United States and abroad.

"Calligraphy brings out my inner peace and painting stirs up my passion," said Ms. Chao. "I like to think my paintings express my emotions, filled with beautiful thoughts and happiness. When I do calligraphy, I am at my calmest and most thoughtful. Between these two, I have found a balance, a haven, and a best friend—one that comes to me when I need it, and steps aside when I need space, yet always remains with me."

(Article by CCACC Art Gallery)