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Lydia Chen

Embracing Self-Discovery: Celebrating Body Positivity and Empowerment

In a society that often imposes rigid standards of beauty and suppresses open conversations about sex, embarking on a journey of self-discovery as a woman can be a challenging and empowering experience. As an artist, I have personally navigated this path, embracing themes of positive body image and self-expression in my artwork. In this blog post, I invite you to explore the significance of my ongoing series, which celebrates the liberation of women from societal pressures and aims to create a safe space for embracing our bodies and desires.

Acrylic painting of a female nude figure in a side view, exhibited next to a bouquet of roses held by a hand.

"To Love", 2023


Growing up, discussions about sex were often met with silence or discomfort, leaving me feeling unprepared and unsure about my own body and its desires. The weight of shame surrounding this topic was overwhelming. However, a significant turning point occurred last year when I embarked on a transformative journey of self-discovery, seeking a deeper understanding of my body and exploring its true desires. Throughout this process, I gradually learnt the invaluable freedom of expressing myself authentically and without fear of judgment. It was this journey of self-acceptance and understanding that led me to recognize the power of embracing my own sensuality and reclaiming my body as a source of strength and self-expression.

Two acrylic painting of a female figure's nude back and front, displayed on the wall of top of a desk

"Let's Dance", 2023 (top left)

Liberation, Series 2, 2023 (bottom right)


Through my artwork, I challenge the prevailing standards of beauty and create a safe space for dialogue. By featuring nudity in my paintings, I aim to convey a message of body positivity and self-acceptance. It is my firm belief that women should not be ashamed of our bodies, nor should we be confined by societal expectations. Instead, we should feel empowered to explore and express our desires without fear of judgment.

Acrylic painting of a nude figure self-hugging, exhibited on a wall

"For Those Lonely Moments", 2022


Embracing self-discovery as a woman is a deeply personal and transformative journey. Through this exploration, I have not only gained a deeper understanding of my sexual self, but I have also grown to know myself better as a whole person. This holistic understanding has empowered me, leaving me feeling liberated and more in touch with my true essence. By challenging societal norms and exploring themes of inclusivity and positive body image, my artwork seeks to inspire women to embrace their own bodies and desires. Through the powerful medium of art, I hope to create a space where women can find solace, empowerment, and the freedom to express themselves authentically. Let us embark on this journey together, celebrating the beauty, strength, and resilience that reside within each and every one of us.

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