We talk to Taiwan-born, New Zealand-based artist Li Si Rong about identity, belonging and the ideas shaping her latest body of work, ahead of the unveiling of Nowhere, Now Here at Sanderson.

When did you decide you wanted to become an artist?

I truly began to believe I could become an artist while studying at Elam School of Fine Arts. It was my second year in New Zealand, and everything still felt new and full of discovery. Through Elam, I realised that being an artist wasn’t just an ideal, but a realistic path. Finding a vibrant creative community, supportive audience and environment where my art was valued gave me the confidence to imagine a future as an artist.

You’re originally from Taiwan. How has moving countries impacted your practice?

I moved to Aotearoa in 2017 and, after almost a decade here, I feel my life and identity have become a fusion of both places. I brought my experiences and memories from Taiwan while growing through new encounters here. Building a life in New Zealand has changed the way I see Taiwan, understand the world and approach my creative process. Earlier in my practice, my work carried many thoughts and emotions, often explored through multiple materials and elements. Living in Auckland has given me a more open and relaxed rhythm. I feel more balanced and mature, and have learned the value of reduction; simplifying things and identifying what is truly essential. I now ask myself: what is at the core of what I want to express?

What is your art about, and how do you want people to feel when they engage with it?

My work begins with everyday life. Small moments, personal experiences, objects, dreams and the relationships between people and the world become sources of inspiration. I translate these observations into visual forms, hoping people feel a sense of calm and joy. As they spend more time with the work, I hope its elements gradually guide them towards deeper reflection.

Can you tell us about your new exhibition?

This year, I have continued developing my Murmuration series, shifting the focus from the relationship between the individual and the collective back towards the self. The series began with the image of a single bird flying within a larger flock; a metaphor for the emotional experience of being an individual within a community. For me, ‘Murmuration’ is a journey from ‘nowhere’ to ‘now here’: a movement from uncertainty and searching towards a deeper awareness of being present and having focus and direction. My new exhibition at Sanderson will showcase this exploration.

Nowhere, Now Here is on display from the 16th September – 11th October, at Sanderson.

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