gwen wong

Using a combination of oil paint and gold leaf in her contemporary works, Georgia artist Gwen Wong features hummingbirds in detailed and dynamic poses, capturing their delicate beauty.

Artist: A fourth-generation Chinese American, Wong was born and raised in Augusta, GA. She graduated from the University of Georgia with a BFA in scientific illustration. She also studied illustration at the Portfolio Center (Miami Ad School) in Atlanta. Wong works from her home studio.

In the beginning: Wong wanted to be a medical illustrator after meeting and studying with the late David Mascaro at the Medical College of Georgia, but a trip abroad made Wong rethink her artistic direction.

“I wanted to see where I could go as an artist,” said Wong. “My first paintings were of my Weimaraner, Bella. I did a whole series of paintings with her when I entered my first art gallery, Aliya Gallery in Atlanta.”

Art & materials: Layered oil paintings featuring animals and birds, including hummingbirds, crows and ravens. Paintings, often with gold leaf range from 5”x5” ($175) to 80”x60” ($11,000).

Favorite tool: Chelsea Classical Studio’s Lean Medium.

“It’s a must have that really enhances the luminosity you can only get in oils,” said Wong.

Inspiration: Contrasting elements.

“I’m fascinated by things that seem to contrast but ultimately complement each other,” said Wong. “For me, this is a powerful tool to create visual and conceptual interest in my work.”

Fun or special commissions:

Pet portraits.
Something special for the dining room of a client’s newly renovated home.

“Together we collaborated on the diptych which would be the main focus,” said Wong. “It was such an honor to have them share their stories and explain why this piece would be so important to them.”

Recent project: Preparing for a solo show at Muse and Co. in Marietta. GA. Opens Sept. 5.

Where to buy: Galleries, including: