I am Guan Qi, a creator, a storyteller, and above all, a mother. My life has always been intertwined with the art of expression, whether through photography, storytelling, or nurturing the boundless creativity of my children. Living in the UK with my small but vibrant family, I’ve embraced a journey of self-discovery and artistic exploration, where each step has brought me closer to the essence of who I am.
Photography, for me, is more than a medium—it’s a language of emotion. I believe that the most powerful images are not necessarily the most technically perfect but those that speak to the heart. My journey with photography began humbly, not out of mastery, but out of a deep desire to connect with the world and share its beauty.
The Beginnings: A Lens of Curiosity
After graduating, I worked as a photography assistant for a couple of years. Back then, my dream was not to become a photographer but a stylist for advertising campaigns. I was drawn to the creativity and visual storytelling of fashion and advertising. However, my time as an assistant taught me an invaluable lesson: the art of capturing emotions and telling stories through images.
Despite my lack of technical expertise with cameras, I found myself instinctively drawn to moments of beauty and authenticity. Working alongside talented photographers, I learned to communicate a vision, align on aesthetics, and recognize the subtle emotions that give a photo its soul. Photography became less about the equipment and more about the feeling—a lesson that still shapes my work today.
A Dream Fulfilled, A Turning Point
Eventually, I achieved my childhood dream of becoming an advertising stylist. It was an exhilarating time, collaborating with celebrities, supermodels, and industry icons. The fast-paced world of advertising allowed me to showcase my creativity and connect with incredible talent. Yet, amid the glamour and success, I began to feel a quiet longing for something deeper.
My heart told me that the life I was living wasn’t fully aligned with my true self. I wanted more than fleeting moments of achievement; I wanted meaning, connection, and a sense of purpose. At the peak of my career, I made the bold decision to step away from the industry. I turned my focus inward, embarking on a journey to create art that resonated with my heart.
Photography as a Creative Rebirth
Starting anew was both daunting and liberating. Photography became my chosen medium for this fresh chapter. I began by creating a personal portfolio, experimenting with light, composition, and emotion. Gradually, people started noticing my work, and clients came seeking portraits and personal projects.
Motherhood and the Evolution of Creativity
The birth of my children marked a significant shift in my journey. Motherhood not only transformed my priorities but also deepened my creative process. I found inspiration in their curiosity, innocence, and boundless imagination. They taught me to see the world with fresh eyes, to embrace imperfections, and to cherish the fleeting moments that often go unnoticed.
During this period, I focused on raising my children while continuing to create. Financially, it was challenging—there were years when I earned nothing from my art. Yet, those were also the richest years of my life. I learned to measure success not by monetary gains but by the fulfillment of living a life true to my passions.
My children became my muses, often appearing in my work. One recurring motif in my photography is the back view of my daughter, surrounded by serene landscapes or lilies—a flower that symbolizes purity and tranquility. These images reflect my desire to capture the quiet beauty of childhood and the serenity of familial bonds.
The Heart Behind Guan Qi Art
Today, Guan Qi Art stands as a testament to my journey—from a stylist in the advertising world to a mother and creator dedicated to telling stories through photography. My work is rooted in the belief that art should evoke emotions and connect people to the beauty of life.
Every photograph I create is a reflection of my personal experiences, emotions, and gratitude. It is also a tribute to my husband, whose unwavering support has been the foundation of my journey. He has been my partner, coach, and greatest believer, encouraging me to pursue my dreams even when the path was uncertain.
Photography as a Language of the Heart
Through Guan Qi Art, I strive to celebrate life’s most meaningful moments. Whether it’s a fleeting glance, the soft light of dawn, or the innocence of a child’s laughter, my photography seeks to tell stories that resonate deeply. I don’t focus on perfection; instead, I focus on connection—between the viewer, the subject, and the emotions that bind us all.
My work is more than a profession; it is an extension of my soul. Photography allows me to capture the world as I see it: full of wonder, beauty, and unspoken narratives. As a creator, I remain committed to learning, growing, and sharing the art that reflects my heart.