Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Xiaoxue Meng. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Xiaoxue, thanks for joining us today. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

I often think it is meaningful to do projects that revolves around social issue like my thesis at USC. My thesis animated project delves into the overlooked realm of women navigating an urban setting in contemporary China. In a society rife with patriarchal challenges, our central theme celebrates “girls helping girls” and female solidarity. Unlike typical portrayals, our piece avoids depicting women as entirely helpless victims, showcasing their proactive stance in facing harassment. The narrative captures the palpable fear women experience in a big city while emphasizing their resilience and agency. Geeta Menon’s perspective on feminism resonates with our project, as we aim to embody the spirit of women making empowering decisions against all odds, fostering sisterhood in the process.

It is very delightful to see my thesis being watched in different countries, reaching diverse audiences. Through this, the word gets out.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

Hi! I am Xiaoxue Meng, a recent graduate at the University of Southern California, majoring in Animation and Digital Arts.

I grew up in a small city in China and didn’t have much access to animation and art. When I first entered Rhodes College, my major was Chemistry. Dedicating myself to chemical knowledge and experiments had never aroused my enthusiasm for studying. It was more like a routine of life. However, I always look on myself as an observer and recorder with a strong urge to tell stories. After I made the decision to transfer to School of Visual Arts, I changed my major into Design and Motion Graphics. I spare no effort to make use of the resources I can reach such as taking all the animation related courses in university. Animation still attracts me the most, the charm of animation that attracts me most is that making animation is like creating a new world. In USC, I finally made my thesis Restless is the Night which lauds the idea of “girls helping girls” and female solidarity in a malicious patriarchal society. My work also focus on comedy/horror that I think animation is so much fun to include a range of topics.

After completing my thesis at USC, I currently work in a design studio as a motion designer. It is very enjoyable to work on exciting projects while also having time on the side for my own projects.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding aspects of being an artist or creative lie in several key elements. Firstly, it’s the ability to visualize my mind and thoughts, transforming them into various forms of art that people can see and connect with on a personal level. Secondly, the immense joy comes from the limitless possibilities that the creative process offers, allowing me to explore and express myself in diverse ways. Finally, the power to tell stories through animation adds another layer of fulfillment, as it enables me to convey narratives, emotions, and perspectives, fostering a deeper connection with the audience. The combination of these elements makes being an artist a truly enriching and gratifying experience.

Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

Reflecting on my creative journey, there are resources I wish I had known about earlier. Firstly, while teachers are often the go-to resource in school, I’ve come to realize the immense value of learning from peers. Collaborating on projects with colleagues has provided me with diverse perspectives, insights, and skills that go beyond what traditional classroom settings offer.

Secondly, the power of self-study is a resource that I wish I had tapped into sooner. Many people, including myself, have discovered that significant learning happens outside of formal educational settings. The vast realm of internet lessons and online resources has proven to be a goldmine for self-driven education. Underestimating this tool early on limited my exposure to a wealth of knowledge available at my fingertips. Recognizing the potential of self-study has been a transformative aspect of my creative journey, opening up new avenues for growth and exploration.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://xiaoxue.me/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pandegcc/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/xiaoxuemeng/