John T Smith Contributing Writer
Information Courtesy of Julie Lefgren
Pictures Courtesy of Julie Lefgren
A unique look into Chinese culture awaits those heading to the Pierce College gallery this fall to see the many Faces of China. The photography exhibit, running from October 1st until October 31st , showcases the work of Julie Lefgren. 
Lefgren has ensured the focus of the show is the people of Mainland China, captured in various candid states of work, play, and everything in between. From a singing blind beggar to a young man wandering The Forbidden City this exhibit is filled with interesting people and historical facts about life and culture in China. No easy task when taking a moment to consider that China is home to 56 minority ethnic groups. The show will have an artist’s reception and lecture on October 23rd from 12 noon to 1:30pm.
Lefgren is a Utah native who has spent parts of the last 25 years in Taiwan and China soaking in the culture, affectionately called and egg by her Chinese friends. Beginning in 1988 Lefgren took a position teaching English in Taiwan. After returning to America it was only 3 months before she returned to Taiwan as a missionary for the Mormon Church. It was here that she began the lifelong endeavor of learning Mandarin. After achieving her M.A. degree in Chinese language and Literature she eventually took a professor position in the BYU Chinese department. She has since lead two study abroad trips back to China. Lefgren found herself surprised, “China had developed at such a fast pace since my first visit in the mid ninety’s that I hardly recognized it.” However she still holds the people of China as her primary interest.
