We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Joy Qiu a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Joy, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Before we get into specifics, let’s talk about success more generally. What do you think it takes to be successful?

What Does It Take to Be Successful? A Journey of Passion, Persistence, and Purpose
Success is a concept as varied as the individuals who pursue it. For some, it is the culmination of grand achievements; for others, it is found in the quiet consistency of daily habits. Yet, no matter how we define it, success is rarely an accident—it is built through intention, effort, and a deep understanding of oneself. My name is Joy Qiu, and as a senior at Pratt Institute, the founder of ZiNG QiU, and an individual navigating the complexities of life, I have come to believe that success is a mosaic of small, deliberate actions, unwavering persistence, and the courage to embrace both failure and growth.

Passion: The Spark That Ignites the Journey
At the heart of every success story lies passion—a force that fuels perseverance and turns dreams into reality. For me, this spark ignited at the age of four, when I first picked up a paintbrush and discovered the joy of creation. Over the past 20 years, painting has been my constant companion, a testament to the power of nurturing what you love. This early commitment taught me that success begins with a clear vision of what you want and the willingness to pour your heart into it.

When I decided to pursue fashion design, I carried this lesson with me. Long before I stepped into a university classroom, I taught myself to use a sewing machine and even attempted to sew a sports jacket. My hunger for knowledge led me to study fashion design and sewing techniques independently, laying a foundation that would later earn me a portfolio scholarship at Pratt Institute. This experience taught me that success is not just about talent—it is about the willingness to prepare, to learn, and to take the first step, even when the path ahead is uncertain.

Persistence: The Bridge Between Dreams and Reality
Success is not a straight line; it is a winding road filled with challenges and setbacks. What separates those who achieve their goals from those who don’t is often persistence—the ability to keep going when the journey feels overwhelming. Throughout my academic and professional life, I have learned that persistence is not just about working hard; it is about working smart, managing time effectively, and staying focused on what truly matters.

Time, after all, is our most precious resource. There are only 24 hours in a day, and how we choose to spend them determines the trajectory of our lives. I have always believed in the power of intentional time management. Inspired by my parents’ teachings, I categorize tasks into quadrants: urgent and important, important but not urgent, and neither urgent nor important. By prioritizing tasks that align with my long-term goals and balancing work with rest, I have been able to accomplish more than I once thought possible. Whether it’s cutting fabrics during the day, sewing at night, or finding inspiration in moments of quiet reflection, I have learned that success is built one small, deliberate step at a time.

Courage: The Willingness to Communicate and Grow
No journey to success is complete without the courage to step outside one’s comfort zone. As a child, I was introverted and hesitant to engage with strangers. Over time, however, I realized that effective communication is not just a skill—it is a gateway to opportunity. Whether it’s discussing ideas with professors, collaborating with peers, or presenting my work to industry professionals, I have learned that success often hinges on the ability to articulate your vision and connect with others.

This courage extends to how we handle failure. In my view, failure is not the opposite of success; it is a part of it. Every misstep, every rejection, is an opportunity to learn and grow. By letting go of the fear of failure and embracing the lessons it brings, we free ourselves to take risks, pursue bold ideas, and ultimately, achieve our goals.

Success as a Daily Practice
Ultimately, I believe that success is not a destination but a way of living. It is found in the small, consistent actions we take each day—whether it’s waking up early, managing our time wisely, or daring to communicate our ideas. It is about staying true to our passions, persisting through challenges, and having the courage to grow. Success is not reserved for the extraordinary; it is available to anyone willing to put in the effort and embrace the journey.

As I continue to navigate my own path—balancing my roles as a student, a designer, and an individual—I am reminded that success is not defined by a single moment of triumph but by the sum of our choices, our efforts, and our willingness to keep moving forward. And so, I invite you to reflect on your own journey: What does success mean to you? And what small steps can you take today to bring yourself closer to it?

Joy, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Hello! I’m Joy Qiu, a passionate and driven fashion designer currently pursuing my BFA in Fashion Design at Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, NY. My journey into the world of fashion began with a deep fascination for creativity, self-expression, and the transformative power of clothing. Over the years, I’ve cultivated a diverse skill set that spans design, technical execution, and creative collaboration, allowing me to bring innovative ideas to life.

What I Do
As a fashion designer, I specialize in creating industry-standard flats, developing print designs, and constructing garments through pattern-making, draping, and sewing. My work is deeply rooted in storytelling, blending bold aesthetics with meticulous craftsmanship. Whether I’m designing for runway shows, assisting with product development, or creating makeup looks for editorial shoots, I strive to push boundaries and deliver work that resonates with both clients and audiences.

The Problems I Solve
In the fast-paced world of fashion, I help bridge the gap between creative vision and technical execution. From solving Shima programming challenges as a Knit Monitor at Pratt Institute to organizing and streamlining workflows during runway shows, I thrive in high-pressure environments where problem-solving and quick thinking are essential. My ability to adapt and collaborate ensures that every project runs smoothly, from concept to completion.

What Sets Me Apart
What makes me unique is my versatility. Not only am I skilled in traditional fashion design techniques like pattern-making and garment construction, but I also bring a strong background in fashion makeup and styling. This multidisciplinary approach allows me to see projects from multiple perspectives, ensuring a cohesive and impactful final result. My proficiency in Adobe Suite, combined with my hands-on experience in print development and technical design, sets me apart as a well-rounded and innovative designer.

What I’m Most Proud Of
One of my proudest achievements was designing for the Daylight Studio Runway Show in October 2024. From mood board presentations to collaborating with producers, models, and photographers, this experience challenged me to think critically and communicate effectively under tight deadlines. Seeing my designs come to life on the runway was a defining moment in my career, reinforcing my passion for storytelling through fashion.

I’m also proud of my role as a Makeup Artist for the Fey New Blood Fashion Show in November 2023. Creating bold, avant-garde looks for five models within a limited timeframe was both challenging and rewarding. This experience not only honed my technical skills but also deepened my understanding of how makeup can elevate a designer’s vision.

What I Want You to Know
If you’re considering working with me or following my journey, I want you to know that I am deeply committed to creating work that is both innovative and meaningful. Whether I’m designing garments, developing prints, or collaborating on a creative team, I bring a unique blend of technical expertise, artistic vision, and a collaborative spirit to every project. I’m always eager to take on new challenges and explore fresh ideas, and I look forward to connecting with like-minded individuals who share my passion for fashion and creativity.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The Most Rewarding Aspect of Being an Artist: A Life of Confidence, Connection, and Joy
To be an artist or creative is to live a life infused with meaning. It is to see the world not just as it is, but as it could be—a canvas waiting to be transformed by imagination and effort. For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist lies in the profound sense of confidence, connection, happiness, and passion for life that creativity brings.

Confidence: The Power to Create and Transform
There is something deeply empowering about bringing an idea to life. Whether it’s a painting, a garment, or a design, the act of creation reminds me of my own ability to shape the world around me. Each project is a testament to my skills, my vision, and my resilience. Over time, this process has nurtured a quiet confidence within me—a belief that I can overcome challenges, solve problems, and turn my dreams into reality. This confidence extends beyond my work; it seeps into every aspect of my life, reminding me that I am capable of more than I often realize.

Connection: Bridging Hearts and Minds
Art is a universal language, one that transcends boundaries and speaks to the soul. As an artist, I have the privilege of creating work that resonates with others, sparking emotions, conversations, and even change. Whether it’s through a runway show, a collaborative project, or a simple sketch, I am constantly reminded of the power of art to connect people. These moments of connection—whether with an audience, a collaborator, or a stranger—are deeply fulfilling. They remind me that creativity is not a solitary act but a shared experience, one that brings us closer to one another.

Happiness: The Joy of Living Authentically
There is an undeniable joy in doing what you love. For me, creating is not just a career or a hobby; it is a way of life. The hours I spend sketching, sewing, or experimenting with new ideas are hours filled with purpose and happiness. Even the challenges—the late nights, the creative blocks, the occasional setbacks—are part of what makes the journey so rewarding. They remind me that I am alive, that I am growing, and that I am living authentically. This happiness is not fleeting; it is a steady, grounding force that sustains me through life’s ups and downs.

Passion for Life: Seeing the World with Wonder
Being an artist has taught me to see the world with fresh eyes. Colors, textures, patterns, and stories are everywhere, waiting to be discovered and reimagined. This sense of wonder infuses my daily life with a deep passion and curiosity. It reminds me that life itself is a creative act—a series of moments that we can shape, cherish, and celebrate. Through art, I have learned to embrace the beauty of imperfection, the thrill of experimentation, and the endless possibilities that each day holds.

The Ultimate Reward: A Life Well Lived
In the end, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is not the accolades or the finished pieces—it is the way creativity enriches my life. It gives me confidence in my abilities, connects me with others, fills me with happiness, and fuels my passion for life. To be an artist is to live fully, to create boldly, and to find meaning in every brushstroke, every stitch, and every moment. And that, to me, is the greatest reward of all.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

The Mission Driving My Creative Journey: Redefining Art Aesthetics and Building Connections
At the heart of my creative journey lies a clear and compelling mission: to create a unique and impactful culture of art aesthetics that reflects my vision of contemporary Asian punk style. This mission is not just about designing clothes or creating art—it’s about challenging norms, celebrating individuality, and fostering a community that embraces bold, unconventional ideas.

Crafting a Unique Aesthetic: Contemporary Asian Punk
My work is deeply rooted in the fusion of traditional Asian elements with the rebellious, DIY spirit of punk culture. This blend creates a distinctive aesthetic that is both edgy and meaningful, reflecting my identity and my perspective on the world. Through my designs, I aim to redefine what contemporary fashion can be—breaking free from stereotypes and offering a fresh, dynamic narrative that resonates with a global audience. Each piece I create is a statement, a celebration of cultural heritage, and a call to embrace individuality.

Spreading Ideas: Sharing My Vision with the World
In today’s digital age, the internet is a powerful tool for artists to share their work and connect with like-minded individuals. A key part of my mission is to spread my ideas and designs across online platforms, reaching people who might not otherwise encounter my work. Whether it’s through social media, a personal website, or collaborative projects, I want to use the internet as a space to inspire others, spark conversations, and build a community around my vision. By sharing my creative process, my inspirations, and my finished pieces, I hope to encourage others to explore their own unique styles and perspectives.

Building Connections: Collaborating with Like-Minded Creatives
No creative journey is complete without collaboration. One of my greatest goals is to meet and work with other artists, designers, and creators who share my passion for pushing boundaries and redefining aesthetics. Collaborations not only enrich my work but also create opportunities to learn, grow, and innovate. Whether it’s partnering with photographers, musicians, or other designers, I believe that the best ideas come from the intersection of different talents and perspectives. Together, we can create something truly extraordinary—a movement that celebrates creativity, diversity, and the power of art to transform.

A Mission Rooted in Passion and Purpose
Overall, my creative journey is driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact—to challenge conventions, inspire others, and build a community that values bold, authentic expression. Through my work, I hope to create a culture of art aesthetics that is not only visually striking but also deeply resonant. By sharing my ideas online and collaborating with others, I aim to turn this vision into a reality, one design at a time. This mission is what fuels my passion, guides my decisions, and keeps me moving forward, even when the path is uncertain. And for me, that is the true essence of being an artist.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zing.qiu?igsh=MTBmdnU2dXQ3amJsaQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Linkedin: http://linkedin.com/in/joy-qiu-b22179296
• Other: Red Note (xiaohongshu): https://www.xiaohongshu.com/user/profile/5bc4a40da639530001ffa942?xsec_token=YBCeR7jfHYqjAwPD8Dbh4fGYiPjuT4nsMqmCImvd4OgBQ=&xsec_source=app_share&xhsshare=CopyLink&appuid=5bc4a40da639530001ffa942&apptime=1740457248&share_id=200691f8474f4db0added003cee5a637

Image Credits

Ziyang Wang, Daylight Studio, Essa Cast, Casidy Chan, Shaheem Maple, Emanuele, Genesis Infante, Dave Disci, John Nacion,