We’re looking forward to introducing you to Xiao He. Check out our conversation below.
Hi Xiao, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
I usually wake up around 7 a.m. The first thing I do is take my dogs downstairs for a walk. It can be a little chilly here in San Francisco in the mornings, so I just slip on comfortable shoes and head out with my two dogs around Potrero Hill. Sometimes we go for a longer walk to my favorite neighborhood coffee shop, Farley’s, and other times it’s just a shorter stroll. After that, I usually grab a light breakfast or work out, depending on the day. Then I either bike to my studio or walk along the waterfront and take public transportation. I really value those quiet morning walking hours—it’s a meditative way to start the day.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m an artist, a painter, but I also run an AI startup in San Francisco. My background combines both art and technology. I went to art school and studied painting, but I also studied computer science at Carnegie Mellon University. Art and tech are two threads that have always been intertwined in my life, and now I find myself building in both worlds: creating art and growing a startup.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. Who taught you the most about work?
My mother. She’s a actually a very artistic and poetic person but she’s also a strong, professional entrepreneur. She started out as an accountant but eventually ran her own business for over fifteen years, very successfully. She taught me so much about work: the importance of keeping your promises, showing up, being proactive, maintaining good relationships, and always being considerate and on time. Her work ethic shaped mine.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes, with art. In 2023, I wasn’t getting many opportunities—just one or two group shows that year—and the art market felt tough. I couldn’t see any progress and wondered if I’d ever get a solo show. It was like walking through fog, not knowing how or when things might change. But that year turned out to be important for me. I took a lot of classes at the Royal Drawing School in London, which completely shifted my way of seeing and drawing. It planted the seeds for the style and ideas I developed later. Looking back, it was the foundation for the group shows I had in 2024 and my solo show in 2025.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What truths are so foundational in your life that you rarely articulate them?
Hard work. I believe opportunities only come when you prepare yourself through consistent effort. If I don’t work hard, I won’t be ready when the right opportunities arrive. I don’t believe in sitting back and expecting good things to just happen. Good luck follows hard work.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What will you regret not doing?
I’d regret not traveling to the places I’ve always dreamed of—like Fiji, which I saw in a National Geographic magazine when I was in middle school, or India, where I almost applied to United World College in high school. I’d also regret not writing a book. I’d love to write one that records the people I’ve met and the things I’ve seen during my time in San Francisco and Silicon Valley.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.xiaohe.studio/
- Instagram: @xiao.he.art
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/xiaohe0225/
Image Credits
Shaun Roberts, Yubo Dong
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