Scarlet Hao
China was my first visual language. I grew up surrounded by the discipline, symbolism, and quiet power of traditional Asian art, and that influence remains at the core of my practice. My work draws from classical Asian aesthetics but reshapes them through a contemporary, more expressive lens, creating paintings that feel both culturally rooted and distinctly my own.
Working primarily in watercolor and acrylic, I create pieces with a cinematic sense of atmosphere, emotion, and presence. That visual strength has led to my work being featured in television and film, and my original fine art is represented by The Glimpse Gallery. Each painting is an extension of heritage transformed through personal vision, balancing refinement with boldness, and tradition with modern identity.
E-Mail: ForbiddenParadiseArt@gmail.com
Press
Interview with Voyage ATL
I’m honored to be featured in an interview with VoyageATL, where I share the story behind my art business and creative journey. In the interview, I talk about how my passion for art grew into my brand, Forbidden Paradise Art, and how my work blends inspirations from my Chinese heritage and life in the United States. I also discuss the challenges and rewards of building an art business and connecting with people through storytelling and visual culture.
Interview with Shoutout Atlanta
I’m excited to share that I was recently featured in an interview with Shoutout Atlanta! In the conversation, I open up about my journey from growing up in China to building a creative life in the U.S., the inspiration behind my art, and how I use my work to connect cultures and spread joy. I also talk about how my pieces have been featured in TV and film, how I’m expanding my art into new forms like greeting cards, and some of my favorite local spots around Atlanta.
“Her Collective Voice” Exhibition
& Rough Draft Atlanta Interview
I’m honored to have my artwork featured in the “Her Collective Voice” special exhibition at the Suwannee Valley Art Center. This exhibition celebrates the strength, resilience, and creative spirit of women, bringing together diverse artistic expressions that speak to shared experiences and individual journeys.
I was also interviewed by Rough Draft Atlanta. It was an incredible opportunity to share the inspiration behind my work and be part of a collective that uplifts and amplifies women’s voices.
“Her Collective Voice” provides a meaningful space for dialogue and artistic celebration, and I’m proud to contribute my voice to this inspiring showcase of women’s creativity.
Phoenix Rising:
Cover Art for Atlanta’s Official Tour Guide
I was honored to be invited by the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau to create the cover artwork for the official Atlanta tour guide, Tour Manual. For this special commission, I painted a powerful phoenix rising above the Atlanta city skyline - symbolizing resilience, rebirth, and the city’s unstoppable spirit. The artwork celebrates Atlanta’s dynamic energy and its continual evolution, capturing both its rich history and bold future in a single, striking image.