Lucy Lo Rasche is an artist hailing from Shanghai and currently based in Switzerland. Having been immersed in Chinese brush painting from early life, Rasche’s current focus is on oil painting. Her work is a representation of her life journey in various cultural environments and centers on human interaction and philosophy. As a student of the Chinese abstract brush painting master Cao Yong Ping, Rasche’s work embraces and applies Chinese expressive choreographic strokes into her oil painting with the Chinese spirit of ‘You Xiu You Shi’ (the harmony of abstract and realism). Her work is expressive and full of emotions and compassion, capturing the spirits of her subjects.
“trust” is 100x100cm, oil on canvas.
As an artist who has lived in and experienced multiple countries and cultures, Rasche is particularly interested in how human beings’ existence and experience are influenced by environmental factors, such as culture, society, values, personal relationships, and how they in turn respond inside and thus influence others and events. We have very different choices to process external events, and already the perception of “objective facts” or “reality” is based on the perspective of the individual. This subjective assignment of meaning, which underlies an individual’s emotional and practical reactions, evolves throughout life. This stays at the heart of Rasche’s art through a wide variety of work. “Poetic expressiveness” permeates her most recent work, taking us on a journey and leaving space for our own thoughts and interpretations to wander beyond what we see. Reality and imagination connect, and symbolism invites many associations.
Lucy Lo Rasche’s journey as an artist is a blend of her rich cultural heritage and her diverse life experiences. Growing up in Shanghai, Rasche was deeply influenced by the traditional Chinese art forms. Her early immersion in Chinese brush painting laid the foundation for her artistic journey. This form of painting, known for its fluid and expressive strokes, has a profound impact on her current work in oil painting. Rasche’s mentor, Cao Yong Ping, instilled in her the importance of merging abstract and realistic elements, a principle she continues to explore in her art.
Her move to Switzerland marked a significant shift in her artistic expression. The tranquil and scenic landscapes of Switzerland, combined with its rich cultural tapestry, provided a new backdrop for her creativity. This change of environment allowed Rasche to delve deeper into the themes of human interaction and philosophy, which are central to her work. Her paintings are not just a reflection of her surroundings but also a commentary on the human condition and the intricate web of relationships that define our existence.
One of her artworks, “Trust,” exemplifies this blend of cultural influences and philosophical inquiries. The painting creates a fascinating contrast between the surreal lightness of the individual and the stark, weighty environment punctured with light from above, reminiscent of spiritual masters. The viewer is left to ponder whether the figure is falling, rising, or simply floating. The trust and serenity exuded by the subject are palpable, drawing the viewer into a contemplative state. This painting, like many of Rasche’s works, sparks curiosity with its beauty and dreamlike qualities, leaving ample space for subjective imagination.
“Trust” is part of a recent series of paintings that Rasche describes as “poetic surrealism.” This series is characterized by its ability to blend reality with imagination, creating a space where symbolism invites multiple interpretations. Rasche’s use of light and shadow, combined with her expressive brushwork, creates a sense of depth and movement that is both captivating and thought-provoking.
Rasche’s art is deeply personal, yet universally relatable. Her ability to capture the essence of human emotions and experiences transcends cultural boundaries. Each painting is a journey, inviting the viewer to explore their own thoughts and feelings. The themes of trust, connection, and the subjective nature of reality are woven throughout her work, offering a glimpse into the artist’s own reflections on life.
In addition to her solo work, Rasche has also collaborated with other artists and participated in various exhibitions around the world. These collaborations have allowed her to exchange ideas and techniques with artists from different backgrounds, further enriching her own artistic practice.
Lucy Lo Rasche’s artistic journey is a testament to the power of cultural exchange and the universal language of art. Her ability to blend traditional Chinese techniques with contemporary oil painting creates a unique and compelling body of work. Through her paintings, Rasche invites us to explore the depths of our own emotions and the complex interplay of external influences and internal responses. Her art is not just a visual experience but an emotional and philosophical exploration, leaving a lasting impression on all who encounter it.
