Meet Mia Zhang

We were lucky to catch up with Mia Zhang recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Mia, thank you so much for joining us today. There are so many topics we could discuss, but perhaps one of the most relevant is empathy because it’s at the core of great leadership and so we’d love to hear about how you developed your empathy?

I believe empathy is something that grows through both solitude and experience. As a child, I often found myself alone at home, and books became my closest companions. Through them, I was able to step into different worlds, understand diverse perspectives, and cultivate a deep sense of empathy for characters and their emotions.
Later, during my college years, I went through some difficult emotional experiences that heightened my sensitivity to the feelings of others. Overcoming these challenges allowed me to see the depth of human emotions more clearly. I now channel those experiences into my art, hoping to create work that resonates with people and brings them warmth and comfort.

Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?

I’m an illustrator specializing in a cute and healing art style, creating work that spreads warmth, joy, and comfort. My art is all about crafting soft, heartwarming worlds where people can find a moment of peace and happiness. Whether through character design, illustrated products, or storytelling, I aim to bring a sense of love and kindness into everyday life.

What excites me most is the ability to connect with others emotionally through my illustrations. I’ve had moments where people have told me that my art made them smile on a difficult day, reminded them of a cherished childhood memory, or even brought them a sense of peace when they were struggling. Those moments mean everything to me.

I designed a series of cozy characters for stationery, and someone messaged me saying they gifted one of my stickers to a friend who was going through a tough time. They told me, ‘Your little drawing made them smile after weeks of sadness.’ That’s when I realized that even the smallest piece of art can carry warmth and comfort to someone else.

These connections inspire me to keep creating. I want my work to be more than just something cute—it’s about making people feel seen, understood, and comforted. Whether it’s through illustrated products, collaborations, or new creative projects, I hope to keep spreading warmth through my art and bring moments of joy to those who need it most.

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?

Looking back, I think three qualities have been the most impactful in my journey as an illustrator: Empathy, Adaptability, and Persistence.

Empathy allows me to create illustrations that truly resonate with people. Art isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about emotion. Understanding how others feel helps me craft images that bring warmth and comfort to those who see them.
To develop empathy, immerse yourself in different stories—whether through books, films, or simply talking to people from different backgrounds. Pay attention to emotions in everyday life, and let those experiences shape your work.

The art world is always evolving, and being adaptable has helped me navigate new opportunities. From exploring different mediums to learning the business side of art, being open to change has kept my work fresh and relevant.
Stay curious and willing to learn. Experiment with new techniques, follow industry trends, and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Platforms, styles, and markets shift over time—embracing change will help you thrive.

Like many creatives, I’ve faced self-doubt, rejections, and setbacks. But persistence has kept me going. Every challenge has been a stepping stone toward growth.
Keep creating, even when things feel uncertain. Success doesn’t happen overnight, and every artist’s journey is unique. Celebrate small progress, build a strong support network, and most importantly, believe in the value of your work.

For those just starting out, my biggest advice is: Be patient with yourself.
Growth takes time, but if you stay true to your passion and keep creating with heart, your art will find its way to the people who need it most.

To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?

The most impactful thing my parents did for me was giving me unreserved love and support. Their love became the foundation that allowed me to feel the warmth of the world and express it through my art.

I wasn’t traditionally a “good student” at school, but my parents never made me feel like my worth was tied to grades. Instead, they fully embraced my artistic passion, encouraging me to explore creativity freely. Rather than pushing me toward a conventional path, they supported my dreams, giving me the confidence to pursue what truly makes me happy.

Their unwavering belief in me helped me see that the world is full of beauty and possibilities—something I now strive to reflect in my illustrations. Because of them, I create with the hope of passing that warmth forward, sharing comfort and joy with others through my work. Their love taught me that kindness and support can shape a person’s dreams, and I hope my art can do the same for those who see it.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://miazhangart.com
• Instagram: qianyi_art

Image Credits

Book Cover for
Skeatboard Design
Physical Touching 01
Physical Touching 02
The Crocodile and The Dentist
Boba Factory