Global Study Program Student YiFei Li Embraces Diversity, Self-Expression and Art at UC Davis

As a second-year master’s student studying art at Renmin University of China, YiFei Li came to UC Davis’ Global Study Program (GSP) with a long list of goals she wanted to achieve. Among them were hosting an art workshop and exhibition, visiting Yosemite, creating California landscape paintings and making new friends. As her time at Davis comes to an end, Li says she has achieved most of her goals, but she says the most rewarding benefit has been the transformative impact of the program. “These invaluable lessons and experiences will undoubtedly shape my future endeavors and contribute to my personal and professional growth in the long run,” she says.  

Why did you decide to attend the Global Study Program at UC Davis?

I chose the Global Study Program to cultivate my international perspective and enhance my abilities in both my studies and life. UC Davis is located near the Bay Area on the West Coast, which has always been a dream destination for me to explore while I learn about contemporary arts. California has served as an inspiration for countless artists, and I wanted to personally experience the vibrant artistic environment that has encouraged and nurtured so many creative minds. By immersing myself in this culturally rich and artistically diverse setting, I knew that I would be able to broaden my horizons, gain valuable insights and further develop my own artistic skills.  

What did you find most valuable about the program?

One of the most valuable aspects of the program was the opportunity to immerse myself in the UC Davis community. This experience has had a transformative effect on me. The program taught me the importance of inclusivity. Interacting with students from diverse backgrounds and cultures provided me with a deeper understanding and appreciation for different perspectives. I learned to embrace diversity and actively engage in meaningful conversations that challenged my preconceived notions. This has not only broadened my worldview but has also made me a more empathetic and understanding person.  

The program has significantly enhanced my personal growth giving me a sense of confidence. The supportive environment at UC Davis allowed me to push beyond my comfort zone and discover my true capabilities. The resources, mentorship and opportunities provided by UC Davis allowed me to engage in activities and initiatives that aligned with my interests and aspirations. As a result, I have developed a greater self-belief and the courage to pursue my goals fearlessly.  

What are some of your favorite memories of your time here at UC Davis?

Some of my favorite memories at UC Davis include riding my bike and enjoying the serene pink sunset, which provided a much-needed relaxation after a long day. One of my most memorable experiences was in one of my courses where the professor made an effort to call everybody's name before the first class. This personal touch and attention to detail gave me a tremendous amount of motivation to engage and excel in my studies.  

How will your experience in the Global Study Program help you in the future?

My experience in the Global Study Program will help me academically by giving me confidence to study in another language and considering furthering my education. It will also open up my horizons and allow me to focus on a broader range of subjects.  

See YiFei Li's art

View photos from YiFei Li's Chinese Ink Painting Workshop and her art exhibit at the UC Davis International Center.

Tell me about your art. How did you get started in it and what are your inspirations?

I specialize in creating artwork using ink and brushes on rice paper, often referred to as traditional Chinese ink painting. This style has a rich history that dates back to mid-imperial China and is deeply intertwined with literature. However, I have taken a unique approach by exploring the connection between urban life and this traditional form of painting, resulting in what I call Urban Theme Landscape painting.  

Unlike modernism and abstractionism, which can be challenging for the average viewer to understand, I strive to create art that is accessible to others. My art is a reflection of Chinese culture, emphasizing moderation, self-recognition and public recognition. Additionally, I incorporate the concept of meditation into my work, influenced by Daoism.  

My journey in art began in an artistic family. My father, an artist himself, had a deep passion for Chinese landscape painting for nearly 30 years. Growing up, I would observe him painting and gradually became fascinated with the history and techniques behind it. He shared his knowledge with me as he noticed my interest blossoming. But my approach to painting has evolved beyond pure artistic expression. I now view it as a means to showcase my research, particularly in the areas of heritage conservation and literature. Through painting, I can visually convey the outcomes of cultural studies. In ancient times, our surroundings were often characterized by mountains and vast trees, but the present-day reality is different. Therefore, it becomes crucial to express our daily lives and give a voice to the times, drawing inspiration from our own experiences.  

What was it like putting on the Chinese Ink Painting Workshop at UC Davis?

Putting on the workshop at UC Davis was a highly anticipated and cherished opportunity for me. I had been preparing for it extensively even before arriving at UC Davis, considering it a top priority on my list of activities. Despite having prior experience as a teaching assistant for a landscape painting course, I still felt nervous about the workshop because of the diverse cultural backgrounds of our students and friends. I wanted to ensure that the workshop would be engaging and easy for everyone to understand.  

I am immensely grateful to the GSP staff who provided unwavering support and played instrumental roles in making the workshop successful. They fostered a warm and supportive group dynamic, and I feel fortunate to have been part of such a welcoming community.  

What are your goals for the future?

I would like to pursue a Ph.D. and further delve into the realms of visual arts and multicultural studies—subjects I am deeply passionate about. By continuing my educational journey at the doctoral level, I aim to make meaningful contributions to the scholarly discourse in these areas, expanding my knowledge and making a positive impact in the realm of visual arts and multicultural studies.