Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Xiangzi Xu. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Xiangzi, so many exciting things to discuss, we can’t wait. Thanks for joining us and we appreciate you sharing your wisdom with our readers. So, maybe we can start by discussing optimism and where your optimism comes from?
The feedback I’ve received from those around me often surprises me; they say I have a knack for uplifting people and fostering positivity. It’s ironic because, truth be told, I grapple with my fair share of negativity, and I’m not afraid to vent about it. However, I refuse to let pessimism linger for too long. When I do express my grievances to friends, it’s not necessarily to seek solutions, but rather to untangle my thoughts and emotions. Maintaining a relaxed mindset is key for me; failure is just another outcome, not inherently negative. And when I need an extra boost, there’s nothing like cuddling my kittens to remind me of life’s simple joys.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
Currently, I’m immersed in my graduate studies in animation at UCLA, building upon the foundation laid during my undergraduate years at CCA (California College of the Arts), where I majored in illustration. It’s been a remarkable journey, one filled with the privilege of pursuing my passion and seeing my art recognized. A pivotal moment came during my final semester as an undergrad when I delved into illustrating the Chinese Zodiac, a project that not only fueled my creativity but also earned me the esteemed Society of Illustrators Student Scholarship of New York. Reflecting on my path, I realize how fortunate I’ve been to have unwavering support from my family. Their encouragement and belief in my dreams propelled me forward, even during the challenging waiting period after receiving a waitlist notification from UCLA. Those two months were a test of patience and resolve, serving as a poignant reminder of the perseverance required to achieve one’s goals. Now, amidst my studies, I’m also pouring my energy into my debut independent film, “Don’t Ruin The Movie,” a project I’m eager to unveil this June. It’s a culmination of my passion for storytelling and animation, and I can’t wait to share it with the world.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Reflecting on my artistic pursuits, three qualities have significantly influenced my journey: trust, desire, and humility.
Trust, to me, embodies self-belief—an unwavering confidence that I carry with me through every challenge and setback. It’s the resilience to bounce back from adversity and the determination to keep pushing forward, fueled by the belief that I can navigate any situation. Grounded in the understanding of my roots, this trust serves as an anchor, keeping me steady amidst the stormy seas of artistic exploration.
Desire is the driving force behind my quest for knowledge and self-improvement, infusing vitality into every artistic endeavor. It’s the thirst for innovation, the courage to venture beyond the familiar, and the commitment to authenticity in self-expression. To sustain this passion, I actively seek inspiration from diverse sources—be it the hushed halls of art museums or the vibrant tapestry of nature—allowing myself the freedom to experiment and grow, even in the face of failure.
Yet, none of this journey is solitary. It’s humbling to acknowledge that success is often a collaborative effort, supported by the unwavering encouragement of family, mentors, and peers. Learning to seek assistance when needed and embracing feedback with humility are vital lessons on this path. True bravery lies not only in facing challenges head-on but also in admitting one’s own limitations and shortcomings.
For those just embarking on their own artistic journey, I offer this advice: Nurture your desire for knowledge and growth, cultivate strong professional skills, and remain open to the lessons that each setback brings. But above all, hold fast to the belief in your own potential—the unwavering trust that you possess the resilience and creativity to overcome any obstacle that crosses your path.
To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?
Navigating my relationship with my parents is akin to traversing a complex maze of emotions. On one hand, I harbor deep gratitude towards them for their unwavering support, especially in financing my art education despite the hefty tuition fees. Their sacrifices are evident, and I recognize the magnitude of their efforts in shaping my path. Yet, there exists a profound desire within me to carve out my own trajectory, distinct from theirs. While I admire their tireless work ethic, I harbor reservations about mirroring their footsteps, yearning for a different life narrative.
This sentiment is not uncommon among many Asian children grappling with the dichotomy of filial piety and individual aspirations. The paradox lies in my parents’ aspirations for me—to excel academically, yet conform to traditional societal expectations of marriage and parenthood. Their vision for my future, albeit rooted in love and concern, feels restrictive, encapsulating their generation’s values and beliefs.
The crux of the matter lies in reconciling their expectations with my own aspirations for autonomy and self-expression. While I acknowledge the challenge of altering deeply ingrained values, I am steadfast in my determination to assert my independence and redefine success on my own terms. Each step I take towards embracing my identity as an autonomous individual serves as a silent testament to the value of self-determination—a journey marked by both struggle and triumph.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://xuxiangziart.cargo.site/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zora_xxz/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/xiangzi-xu-b81599222?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@xiangzixu4679?si=EjEZ4wCrxkCOYs0h
