The Daily Eastern News - Activities
Issue: 9/23/04
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Painting explores life, love and feminism
By Kyle Mayhugh/ Staff writer

Assistant art professor Jenny Chi is looking to the 12th century for inspiration on a modern issue: feminism.

Chi has been working on a painting that will be on display at the Women's Resource Center in March 2005. The painting portrays 12th century French philosopher Peter Abelard and his lover, Heloise. Their relationship is considered one of the most tragic love affairs in history.

A native of Taiwan , Chi received her master's degree in fine arts from the School of Figurative Art of the New York Academy of Art in 1998.

She has worked at Eastern since 2002, teaching courses in painting and drawing.

"She's an outstanding teacher," said Glenn Hild, chair of the art department. "She's a first-rate draftsman, and she is able to convey that knowledge to the students."

Chi describes her painting style as Italian Renaissance, which she says is rare because it is both difficult to master and market. She received a faculty research grant in the summer to help fund the project.

"I've been working on this painting for months and months for hundreds and hundreds of hours," Chi said.

"I didn't care if I got a grant or not. I wanted to finish it. It should be finished within a couple of weeks."

Abelard was a philosopher in the 12th century, and Heloise was the educated niece of a powerful church official. They secretly married, but Abelard was attacked by Heloise's uncle when he discovered their relationship.

They spent the rest of their lives in monasteries, writing a series of letters that have survived as important philosophical and historical documents.

Chi first heard the story of Abelard and Heloise from another professor and was inspired. She said she often paints the subjects of romance and feminism, but usually takes her scenes from mythology rather than history.

The painting shows Abelard and Heloise in bed together, surrounded by items that symbolize important themes from their lives such as love letters, a crucifix and a lyre.

Chi said everything in the painting was chosen for its connection to the lives of her subjects and should not be taken literally. The items are not necessarily historically accurate. The letters in the painting are her own personal letters.

The painting is being composed in Chi's studio on campus at the Burl Ives Art Studio Hall. Chi keeps a journal of her painting as it progresses, keeping detailed notes on everything from the specific colors used to the meaning of symbolism. She prefers to work late at night, between midnight and 3 a.m., for lighting purposes.

After the painting is displayed at the Women's Resource Center , it will go to Tarble Arts Center on campus.

While she appreciates the painting can reach a wide audience with its feminist theme, Chi says that painting to her is a personal art.

"In the end, I paint for myself," Chi said.