“Before We Knew Ourselves”：17-year-0ld Qier Wang Art Show

On May 2, 2026, the opening ceremony of the WCAAD 17-year-old student Qier Wang was held in Arcadia with the support of the Yaen Foundation. (from left：WCAAD Principal Lei Wang，Qier Wang, YAEN Foundation Carol Liu，Franklin Foundation Ms.Nakayama)

Titled Before We Knew Ourselves, the exhibition featured a variety of works Qier had created over the years, documenting her growth and transformation along her artistic journey.

“Art has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember, but I began seriously painting in 8th grade. Since then, it has become one of the most important ways I understand myself and the world around me.” Qier shared，“My work is closely connected to time and emotion. Each painting reflects a different period in my life and the feelings I experienced during that time.”

According to Qier, some pieces come from moments of confusion, others from growth, and some from quiet reflection. “Painting allows me to express things that are hard to put into words and turn them into something visible.” she said, “This exhibition is a collection of works created across these different stages. Together, they show how my perspective has changed over time and how I have slowly come to understand myself.”

WCAAD Principal Lei Wang said in her speech at the opening ceremony that the greatest joy for a teacher is to see students make continuous progress and reach higher platforms. "The success of our children is our best reward. Having a student like Qier makes us deeply proud," said Lei. She noted that the works displayed in the gallery record the child's growth and thoughts, and the exhibition setup was very thoughtful and professional, leaving a deep impression. "Seeing a child start from a place of passion and come this far step by step is truly touching, and I am sincerely proud of her! I also want to express special thanks to her parents for their years of support and companionship. It is their perseverance and trust that have allowed the child to grow with peace of mind and express herself freely," Lei said. "At the same time, I would like to thank the Yaen Foundation for providing such a valuable platform and opportunity for young artists, and sincerely wish Qier boundless prospects and an ever brighter future on her artistic journey."

Among the works exhibited, several have won the national Scholastic Art & Writing Awards.

This art exhibition will run for one month, with the closing ceremony scheduled for 12:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 24. Everyone is welcome to visit and show your support, and to experience together the inspiration and power of art.

Opening Day：

May 2, Saturday：12:00pm–5:00pm

May 3, Sunday：12:00pm–4:00pm

May 9, Saturday：12:00pm–5:00pm

May 10, Sunday：12:00pm–4:00pm

May 16, Saturday：12:00pm–5:00pm

May 17, Sunday：12:00pm–4:00pm

May 23, Saturday：12:00pm–5:00pm

May 24, Sunday（Closing Day）：12:00pm–4:00pm

This exhibition is not only an artistic showcase but also a journey of growth and self-discovery. Welcome to visit and witness the growth and transformation of a young artist!