On March 8, 2025—International Women’s Day—I had the privilege of unveiling not one, but two art exhibitions in one unforgettable evening in Amsterdam. It was a celebration of strength, diversity, and the radiant energy of women around the world. From the historic OBA Library Mercatorplein to the vibrant Gallery Intussen in Nieuw-West, this double event was a beautiful fusion of creativity, community, and cultural empowerment. Let me take you behind the scenes of this magical night, share a few emotional moments, and tell you more about the powerful message behind each exhibition.
First Stop: OBA Mercatorplein – “Love Over Fear” Collection
The evening began at OBA Library Mercatorplein, an inspiring public space in the heart of Amsterdam West. This was the debut presentation of my collection titled “Love Over Fear”—a deeply personal series of portrait paintings celebrating the inner strength, resilience, and voices of women across the globe.
Each piece in this collection captures a real woman—some are friends, others are muses I’ve met along my journey. They gaze directly at the viewer, radiating confidence, strength, and unapologetic pride in their identity. This series is a visual love letter to women who choose courage over conformity, hope over despair, and love over fear.
Fostering Dialogue Through Art
What made this opening truly special was the interactive component. I created a set of Empowerment Activity Cards, placed beside each artwork. These cards offered questions, quotes, and prompts designed to encourage open conversation about topics like self-worth, gender equity, cultural pride, and empowerment. Visitors engaged with them enthusiastically, using the cards as icebreakers to spark deep, often emotional, discussions.
A Moment of Connection
I gave a speech and presentation sharing my journey—from growing up in a traditional Asian family where art wasn’t considered a “real career” to becoming an artist who now uses her voice and brush to inspire transformation. Many attendees shared their own stories afterward. Some laughed. Some simply nodded, eyes bright with resonance.
The night was made even more heartwarming with drinks, delicious finger foods, and the warm, buzzing energy of people from all backgrounds—locals, creatives, expats, mothers, daughters, sisters, friends. It felt like a true community gathering.
Second Stop: Gallery Intussen – Celebrating Diversity in Womanhood
From OBA, I rushed to the second opening at Gallery Intussen, located in the lively neighborhood of Amsterdam Nieuw-West. This show featured a brand-new portrait series focused entirely on the beautiful, complex, and intersectional diversity of women.
This collection is vibrant, colorful, and emotionally raw—using bold colors, pop art influences, ethnic patterns, and contemporary symbolism to reflect stories that are often silenced or overlooked.
Women from All Walks of Life
Here, you’ll find portraits of women from the world with Uganda, Africasia, Japan, China, Philippines... My goal with this collection is to show that womanhood isn’t a box—it’s a galaxy. And every star deserves to shine.
Each canvas is a visual celebration of identity and pride, combining abstract elements with realistic faces to draw the viewer into each woman’s presence.
A Festive Gathering
This opening was more intimate but no less powerful. I delivered another speech, this time focusing on the need for representation in the art world. We raised our glasses to women everywhere and toasted to being seen, heard, and celebrated—not just on March 8, but every day.
The crowd here was incredibly engaged. I had long, beautiful conversations with fellow artists, curators, art lovers... That moment alone made everything worth it.
The Power of Community and Art
Experiencing two openings in one night was intense, but emotionally uplifting. What stayed with me most was the deep sense of gratitude. I felt seen. Supported. Surrounded by a wave of people who believed in the same values I do—empowerment, inclusion, and transformation.
Art has the power to create bridges where walls once stood. On this International Women’s Day, I witnessed what happens when those bridges lead us to each other.
Explore More of My Work
If you missed these two exhibitions—or if you’re curious to dive deeper into the stories behind the artworks—I invite you to explore my other exhibitions and collections on my website.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Whether you were with me in Amsterdam that night or reading this from afar, know that your presence matters. Together, we celebrate the power of women—every brushstroke, every word, every step forward.
