Local artist Rita Hsu is set to unveil her first solo exhibition, Spirit of the Wild, a heartfelt collection of oil paintings that capture the beauty, resilience, and spirit of wildlife. The exhibition will be held at Malvern Artists’ Society Gallery from 12-15th June 2025.

Rita’s journey as an artist is one of resilience and passion. Born with a natural talent for drawing, she represented her class in competitions from an early age. However, life’s challenges, including the loss of her father at age 10 and leaving home at 16 to work and study, meant that her artistic dreams were put on hold. It wasn’t until 2010, before moving to Melbourne, that she rediscovered her love for painting.

“One day at the office, I picked up some coloured pencils and drew a sunflower. It felt like it was smiling back at me, lifting my mood. That was the moment I realized the deep emotional connection art could bring,” Rita recalls.

While balancing a full-time career in marketing Australian abalone, she pursued painting in her spare time, studying at the Victorian Artists Society and Malvern Artists Society. Over the years, she refined her distinctive style.

Inspired by the raw beauty and resilience of wildlife, Spirit of the Wild is a collection that reflects Rita’s deep admiration for animals and their unspoken bonds with the world. Each painting tells a story, revealing not just the physical form of its subject but also its essence.

One of the most personal pieces in the exhibition, Braving the Unknown, holds special meaning for Rita. “At a young age, I left my small village to pursue a future in a big city. I believed I was brave, but deep down, I was also very scared. This painting represents that journey—the courage to step into the unknown despite the fears that come with it,” she says.

Curating her first solo exhibition was a thoughtful process, ensuring a range of sizes and price points so that collectors at all stages could find a piece that resonates. Beyond showcasing her work, this exhibition is a celebration of her artistic journey and a gift to herself for her 50th birthday.

As a migrant to Australia, Rita sees this exhibition as more than just a personal milestone—it’s a way to give back to the community that has embraced her.

“Presenting my first solo exhibition in my local community is incredibly meaningful. It deepens my sense of connection and belonging, allowing me to share my artistic journey with those around me. This exhibition is more than just showcasing my work—it’s a way to give back, to inspire, and to celebrate the bonds we share through art,” she shares.

Rita hopes visitors will leave the exhibition feeling uplifted, inspired by the stories within her paintings, and reminded that growth and transformation are always possible.