Faculty of Art
Drawing and Painting
Meet the Artist
Xijia (Romee)
Lai
Christian Artist
“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.(John 1:5) Am I in the light, in the darkness, or resisting the light while embracing the dark?”

Xijia (Romee) Lai (b. 1995) is a Christian artist whose practice is deeply rooted in faith, exploring the presence and power of the divine through painting. Her work emerges from personal experiences of walking with God, reflecting an ongoing dialogue between the artist and the spiritual realm.Working primarily with watercolor, Romee creates luminous, atmospheric landscapes that embody themes of light, healing, and contemplation. Her process often involves prayer, meditation, and reflection on biblical scripture, allowing each piece to become both an act of worship and a visual testimony.Through her work, Romee seeks to reveal glimpses of spiritual truth within the natural world, inviting viewers into moments of stillness, clarity, and encounter. Her paintings aim to convey a sense of divine presence—offering light, hope, and a deeper awareness of truth beyond the visible.
Tyndale University
Master of Theology Studies
Major In progress
Cape Breton University
Bachelor of Hospitality and Tourism Management
Major Completed, 2019
Liaoning Normal University
Bachelor of Choreography
Major Transferred, 2014
Watercolor Painting Abstract
2026, Dream
Ada Slaight Gallery
2026, Joy in Christ
Open Space Gallery
2026, Toronto outdoor art fair
Toronto
2025, Heritage
Open Space Gallery
2025, Tonroto Outdoor Art Fair
Toronto
2025, Worship through Art: In His Image
Ada Slaight Gallery
2025, Pentimento
Ada Slaight Gallery
2024, Whispers of light and shadows
Ada Slaight Gallery
2024, Fleshly Desires
Ada Slaight Gallery
2024, Bridging Home
The Great Hall
2024, Toronto outdoor art fair
Toronto
2024, Echoes of myth
Sheridan
2026, Toronto Outdoor Art Fair Career Launcher
RBC Centre for Emerging Artists & Designers
2024, Partial Gallery OCAD U Showcase
Partial Gallery in partnership with RBC Centre for Emerging Artists & Designers

Celebrate the work of OCAD U’s class of 2025/2026!