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

Meiqi, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Are you happy as a creative professional? Do you sometimes wonder what it would be like to work for someone else?

I appreciate the opportunity to be here, and it’s a fantastic question. Being an artist is a  distinctive and gratifying journey, but it does come with its fair share of uncertainties.  Nevertheless, I couldn’t envision myself pursuing any other path. The ability to freely  express myself and craft something of profound significance is incredibly fulfilling.  Certainly, like anyone else, I’ve had moments of doubt where I pondered what it might be  like to have a more conventional job, but those moments are fleeting. This is because  there’s an indescribable joy in realizing that something I create has the capacity to touch  people’s lives, elicit emotions, and perhaps even shift their perspective. That’s what  propels me forward, even during the more challenging periods. 

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?

I’m a bio artist, and my journey in this unique field has been an exhilarating exploration of  the convergence of science and art. My passion for biology and creativity has paved the  way for my current path. As a bio artist, I engage in the creation of a diverse array of  artistic works, often revolving around living organisms and biological concepts. My studio  serves as the focal point for my creative endeavors, where I bring my imaginative visions  to life. 

Within my artistic practice, I harness living organisms, biotechnology, and various forms of  media to craft thought-provoking pieces that challenge our understanding of life, nature,  and the intricate relationship between humans and non-human entities. These creations  find their place in exhibitions, competitions, and other art events, enabling me to share my  unique perspective with a wider audience. 

In addition to my personal artistic journey, I also offer creative services to clients,  encompassing UX/UI design, bio design, and electronic design. Collaborating with  individuals and organizations to transform their creative ideas into reality is a source of  immense satisfaction for me. I merge my artistic sensibilities with cutting-edge technology  to deliver distinctive solutions. 

I take immense pride in the innovative and thought-provoking nature of my art. I firmly  believe that art possesses the ability to initiate conversations, evoke emotions, and  challenge established norms. My aspiration is that through my work, I can inspire  individuals to perceive the world in a new light. 

For prospective clients, followers, and admirers, I want to convey my unwavering  dedication to pushing the boundaries of creativity. Whether you’re interested in  experiencing my art or embarking on a design project together, rest assured that I am  committed to delivering outstanding and thought-provoking outcomes. My work seamlessly combines the beauty of the natural world with the limitless possibilities of modern  technology, and I am eager to share this unique perspective with you. 

Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?

Absolutely, the creative journey encompasses aspects that can be challenging for those  who aren’t deeply engaged in creative pursuits to fully grasp. One fundamental facet is the  ongoing process of self-discovery and growth inherent in the world of creativity. 

As a creative individual, my work often involves venturing into uncharted territory, taking  calculated risks, and stretching the limits of conventional thinking. This can be  disconcerting for some, as it entails embracing uncertainty and unpredictability as integral  components of the creative process. It’s about recognizing the beauty within chaos and  welcoming mistakes and setbacks as opportunities for personal and artistic development. 

Furthermore, creativity is frequently a profoundly personal and emotional experience. It  serves as a means to express one’s innermost thoughts, emotions, and concepts. Non creatives may struggle to fathom the vulnerability associated with sharing one’s work with  the world, fully aware that it will be subject to criticism, judgment, and various  interpretations. Yet, it is precisely this vulnerability that fuels the creative process and leads  to the creation of the most genuine and influential art. 

In addition, the pursuit of creative work often entails a distinctive perspective on time and  productivity. Creative minds do not always adhere to conventional schedules or routines.  Inspiration can strike at unexpected moments, and the creative process is not always a  linear progression. To non-creatives, this may appear as disorganization, but for us, it  represents the natural ebb and flow of creativity. 

Ultimately, the creative journey involves embracing the unknown, daring to take risks, and  challenging established norms. It involves forging a path that may not always align with the  sensibilities of those who do not share the same passion for self-expression and  innovation. Yet, within this journey, we uncover new viewpoints, challenge prevailing  paradigms, and contribute to the richness of human culture. 

So, while it may appear unconventional and puzzling to non-creatives, there exists a  unique and exquisite depth to the creative process that continually enriches our lives and,  in its own way, contributes to the advancement of society as a whole.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

In my perspective, the most effective way for society to support artists, creatives, and a  flourishing creative ecosystem is by acknowledging the immense value that the arts and  creativity bring to our collective existence. This recognition should encompass increased  investment in the arts, not just in terms of financial backing but also through the integration  of art and creative education within our educational institutions and communities.  Providing readily accessible spaces for artists, nurturing a culture of appreciation, and  encouraging the commissioning of creative works all play pivotal roles in nurturing a  thriving creative environment. 

Furthermore, it is essential to realize that the arts are not a luxury but rather an integral  component of our cultural identity and overall well-being. This shift in perspective can pave  the way for a more supportive environment in which artists can truly flourish. By actively  engaging with, celebrating, and promoting the work of artists, society can ensure that  creativity continues to enrich our lives and contribute to the diversity and vibrancy of our  culture. 

Contact Info:

• Website: meiqizhang.com
• Instagram: meiqizhang.studio

Image Credits
Meiqi Zhang