Letter from the Artist

I’m Sophia Chung, an International student from Malaysia. I came to Lenoir-Rhyne University through a scholarship program from the ELCA entitled, “International Women Leaders Program.” I graduated from Lenoir-Rhyne University, NC with Bachelor’s degrees in both studio art and psychology. One of my goals is to be an art therapist.
I grew up in a Christian family. My parents taught me to love the Lord and the people around me. When I arrived at LRU I gradually started getting involved in campus ministries, went on several international mission trips and started serving the international students on campus. All these experiences helped me have a clearer picture of who God is, grow my heart for students by serving them and increase my desire to share the Gospel. In 2017 I began to realize God had a higher purpose in bringing me to America. I felt the call of God to ministry.
Along with spending time with various student groups at LR, I spend a good bit of time in the art
studio using this artistic gift He has given me. The time spent with God in the studio has become a time of redemption and restoration; both in my own heart and as I think about about others as I create. Therefore, I would love to use the money for something fruitful and meaningful.
For the first time, I am going to sell my artwork to establish a “mission fund” to be used to help support others in ministry and to enable me to go on future trips as God leads. By selling the paintings and artwork, 40% of the profits will cover the basic cost of the materials and 60% will go to the “mission fund.” The “mission fund” will use for various ministries I’m currently partnering and volunteering, more details about ministries I’m partnering and volunteering will be included in the newsletter if you hit the “subscribe” button.
This may mean nothing to you, but it means a huge step of faith for me, especially using the gift from God for His ministries, and encouraging others to do so. You can subscribe for ministry updates and prayer requests, and I would love you to partner with me as I continue this journey. If you have any questions, feel free to email me.
Thank you so much for patiently read through this, your support and/ or prayer would mean a lot to me!

Artist Statement 

Art holds the power of healing.Although I was born and raised in Malaysia, I graduated as an international student from Lenoir-Rhyne University with Bachelor’s degrees in both studio art and psychology. Living in a multiracial country shapes my view and perspective. My passion for life and people is a source of overflowing inspiration. For me, art is powerful as a tool for healing, as a means of recording, and as a way of bringing awareness to others.