Solo Exhibition "Serendipity: The Art of Nellie Chao" Opening Reception Successfully Held

The solo exhibition Serendipity: The Art of Nellie Chao held its opening reception on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at the CCACC Art Gallery. The exhibition features more than 40 of Chao's carefully crafted works, spanning traditional ink painting, calligraphy, watercolor, as well as small-scale Pomo and collage creations, showcasing a wide range of styles and innovative expressions.

That afternoon, the gallery was filled with guests in a warm and lively atmosphere. The exhibition attracted many art enthusiasts who came to appreciate and exchange ideas. Rita S. Lewi, Executive Director of CCACC & Director of CCACC Art Gallery, delivered remarks congratulating the success of the exhibition. In her speech, Nellie Chao expressed gratitude to the CCACC Art Gallery for providing the platform and extended special thanks to Rita Lewi and Dr. Kit-Keung Kan, President of CCACC Art Club of Chinese Painting and Calligraphy & Senior Advisor of CCACC Art Gallery, for their guidance and support. She reflected on her artistic journey since 1995, devoted to studying calligraphy and traditional Chinese painting, and shared how her participation in various art studios and associations introduced her to like-minded fellow artists, encouraging her continual artistic growth.

To ensure the smooth running of the opening reception, Rita Lewi, Nellie Chao, and her friends arrived in the morning to personally arrange the venue and prepare an array of delicious refreshments. During the reception, guests lingered to admire Chao's works and actively engaged in discussion. Many praised her artistic accomplishments, with heartfelt comments in the guestbook such as, "Truly talented and admirable!"

Nellie Chao is currently a member of the Sumi-e Society of America, Inc. and Potomac Valley Watercolorists, and serves as Vice President of CCACC Art Club of Chinese Painting and Calligraphy. Her works are widely acclaimed and collected by numerous private collectors and institutions. With her distinctive brushwork and cross-cultural artistic vision, she continues to delight audiences and bring them beauty and inspiration.

Exhibition Information

· Exhibition Dates: September 6 – October 31, 2025

· Opening Hours: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

· Address: 9318 Gaither Road, Suite 215, Gaithersburg, MD 20877

· Parking & Admission: Free

（Article by CCACC Art gallery, Photos by Ned Li, ADHC Director）

Guests engaged in lively conversations.

Participating artist Nellie Chao (front row, fourth from left) posed with friends.

Rita S. Lewi, Executive Director of CCACC & Director of CCACC Art Gallery, spoke with visitors.

Li-Fang C. Liu, Deputy Executive Director of CCACC, posed with Nellie Chao.

Guests admired the artworks.