Est. 1995
The Studio
A sanctuary for artistic excellence in Waterford, Connecticut, where centuries of Chinese painting tradition meet modern artistic ambition.
Our studio is a carefully curated space that embodies the spirit of a traditional Chinese scholar's study. Every element, from the hand-selected ink stones to the naturally lit workspace, is designed to inspire focus, creativity, and artistic growth.
Master-Led Instruction
Our Masters
Li Zhai
Principal Master & Founder
Born into a lineage of Chinese painters, Master Li Zhai studied under renowned artists at the Central Academy of Fine Arts in Beijing. With over 30 years of teaching experience, he has guided hundreds of students to national and international recognition. His expertise spans traditional Shan Shui landscape painting, bird-and-flower compositions, and calligraphy.
Master Li's students have earned more than 200 Scholastic Art Awards and gained admission to the nation's top art programs, including RISD, Parsons, and the School of Visual Arts.
Yujuan Zhai
Co-Instructor & Portfolio Director
Yujuan Zhai brings a unique blend of traditional Chinese painting mastery and contemporary art education to the studio. A graduate of the Zhejiang Academy of Fine Arts, she specializes in Gongbi (meticulous brushwork) technique and oversees the studio's college portfolio preparation program.
Her rigorous approach to portfolio development has helped students build cohesive bodies of work that consistently impress admissions committees at competitive art institutions across the country.
Begin Your Journey
Whether you're pursuing competitive art awards or building a college portfolio, our master-led instruction will help you achieve your goals.