QiTang Art
QiTang Art is a Chinatown art studio rooted in over a decade of cultural practice, and I joined to help bridge its traditions in Guqin, tea, and calligraphy with a younger generation and introduce Eastern aesthetics to Western audiences in a way that feels accessible, genuine, and respectful.
Team
Studio Owner: Kevin Ge
Studio Manager: Jing Zhao
Photography: Hao Yang
Background
QiTang Art, also known as 7s Art, is a Chinatown based art studio with over a decade of cultural practice. Founded by seven artists and now led by Kevin Ge and Chris Hu, the studio offers workshops in Guqin, tea tasting, and calligraphy. For years it has quietly preserved traditions that carry deep cultural significance, making it a hidden gem within the community that deserves wider recognition.
Challenge
The core challenge was bridging tradition with a younger, more energetic audience. This meant finding the right pairing of Chinese and English typefaces that work harmoniously for both the logo and body reading, creating a brand identity that feels fresh without losing cultural depth. Beyond typography, the goal was to open the studio to a wider and younger audience, making the space feel inviting and relevant to people who may not yet be familiar with these traditions.
Impact
Since the rebrand, the studio's Instagram community has grown from 1,400 to over 2,400 followers. Signature classes expanded from four to eight, with many reaching full capacity and adding second sessions to meet demand. In February, during Chinese New Year, Guqin instructor Wensong Bai performed his first concert at Carnegie Hall, marking a milestone moment for the studio and the cultural traditions it carries forward.
