We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Mingyue Qu a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Mingyue, thanks for joining us today. Let’s kick things off with your mission – what is it and what’s the story behind why it’s your mission?
I’m passionate about Product Design, especially when it comes to crafting experiences that truly put the user at the center. I’ve been on a journey of refining my skills in UX/UI design and product management throughout my career, diving into a variety of projects.
Currently, I’m a key player on the Instaco team, working on the Ezze live app, which focuses on online shopping and selling. Since I jumped on board in March 2021, my role has grown in a big way, thanks to the dynamic startup vibe that’s all about embracing change and sparking innovation.
During the design phase, I’ve been leading the charge, creating two crucial dashboards from 0-1 that cover both B2B and B2C segments of the e-commerce world. My approach is all about crafting intuitive user journeys, delivering top-tier design assets, and weaving in iterative improvements that help the product evolve and grow.
When it comes to product management, I’ve teamed up closely with Product Managers to make sure our product roadmap lines up with business plans. This means drafting PRDs, handling communication using tools like Notion and Trello, and working directly with engineering peers to set up testing processes. This way, we’re sure to put out high-quality products.
Before this, I had a hand in revamping apps for big names like Netflix, Amazon, Byte Dance, and Scanwell Health. That experience has really taught me how to balance what users need with the bigger business picture.
Our mission at Instaco is deeply meaningful to me because it aligns perfectly with my personal ethos as a creative professional. We’re not just building products; we’re crafting experiences that enrich the lives of our users. By putting the user at the center of everything we do, we’re not only creating intuitive and seamless digital experiences but also fostering meaningful connections between people and the products they love. This mission resonates with me on a profound level because it reflects my core belief that great design is about more than just aesthetics; it’s about empathy, understanding, and empowerment. By prioritizing the user experience, we’re not only driving business success but also making a positive impact on the lives of millions of people around the world.
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?
My journey commences with a childhood passion for art.
As a young child, I would spontaneously draw on the walls of my house without hesitation. The act of creating art was a profound love, one that would go on to shape the very fabric of my life. As I grew older, I nurtured a dream – a dream so crucial that it marked my first significant decision – to continue drawing even as I ventured into university.
University life, however, proved to be a challenging crucible, where the freedom of education could easily lead one astray. Like many young people of my generation, I grappled with the daunting question of what I should do or could do in life. Then, fate intervened. In a gallery, I happened upon a remarkable installation – a shining cube controlled by voice. I was inexplicably drawn to it as if a beam of sunlight had pierced my heart. My blood surged with curiosity, and the thirst for knowledge that welled within me was insatiable.
In response to this newfound fascination, I delved into the realms of interaction, humanity, and technology. I pored over research papers, actively participated in digital media art activities, and visited exhibitions to gain deeper insights into how other artists thought. During this journey, I made a pivotal second decision in my life – the decision to study abroad.
In 2018, I received an acceptance letter from Pratt Institute, where I embarked on a master’s program in Interactive Arts. This was a transformative experience, one that allowed me to excavate my deepest inspirations and gain a profound understanding of interaction. It was here that I found the perfect canvas to make my creative visions a reality. My focus shifted towards crafting digital-experiential products, with a special emphasis on wearable devices. These creations foster connections by providing audiences with direct sensory experiences.
Life in the vibrant city of New York was nothing short of incredible. The city’s energy, imagination, and love served as a nurturing ground for my interactive arts. I journeyed into 2020 with boundless optimism, brimming with dreams of being an artist with my studio to manifest my artistic faith.
However, the stark realities of life took a harsh turn. All my career dreams seemed to shatter when I graduated in June 2020. With an artistic background and visa status as an international student, Covid-19 made it nearly impossible to find a job, and my aspirations seemed further away than ever. To make things more complex, my relationship led me from New York to Los Angeles, only for it to end in disappointment. The pandemic had instilled fear in people, and returning to China was fraught with risks of carrying the virus to my family.
Life was filled with despair. I was on the verge of tears daily, grappling with fear and a profound sense of loss. There were days when I would simply lie down, devoid of thought, or hang out with friends aimlessly to escape reality.
Then, a moment altered my perspective. I stumbled upon a post by someone who had been laid off, yet she bravely sought new opportunities. Her courage shook me to my core. Why should I give up when my life had only just begun? I made my third crucial decision. I transitioned from art to design, from tangible products to digital products, and from interactive arts to UX design.
Stepping out of my comfort zone was daunting, particularly that first step. Yet, this time, I didn’t shed tears. I chose to confront the challenge head-on, viewing it as an opportunity to hone my skills for independent living and to fortify my resolve. Regardless of the outcome, at least I had tried. My routine was a relentless pursuit of job opportunities. I meticulously refined my resume and portfolio. Each morning, the first thing I did was check emails and LinkedIn, diligently sending out my resume. Despite the barrage of rejection letters, I pressed on. I engaged in creative jams to expand my knowledge of UX design.
Thanks to my background in interactive arts, I was able to carve a niche in the design realm. To alleviate stress, I turned to my paintbrush, creating characters each with their own unique stories. Gradually, I began to receive project requests from clients, a boost to my confidence. With persistence, I secured my first job and obtained sponsorship for future working authorization nearly a year after my graduation.
The challenges and tribulations I faced felt worthwhile as I entered this new chapter in my life. Just when I thought life was about to turn in my favor, it delivered another harsh blow.
Amid this emotional whirlwind, I found myself trapped in depression. It was a period where I felt lost and devoid of purpose. Sleep and appetite eluded me, and the weight of guilt grew each time I spoke to my parents. I wore a mask, concealing my inner turmoil, never daring to share my true feelings with them. At times, I even contemplated the darkest of scenarios.
Yet, a faint voice from the depths of my heart persisted, a voice that longed for salvation. My old friend, drawing, was no longer enough, for it led me to contemplate my existence more than ever in the unnerving silence. So, I embarked on yet another journey, this time embracing the practice of playing the piano. I was entirely unfamiliar with musical instruments, and this fourth decision was a monumental challenge. My fingers were clumsy, the notes inconsistent, and the pain was relentless. In comparison to the hardships of the COVID-19 pandemic, this was a mere trifle. I persevered, dedicating two hours each day to practice. I reminded myself that I didn’t need to compete with others, only to progress one step beyond the previous day. With persistence, practice yielded perfection. I documented my daily progress and witnessed my growth.
The music I learned was more than just notes; it was a lifeline. It soothed my emotions and granted me a profound sense of peace. This time, it was music that saved me.
Today, I am a Product Designer, spearheading the design and product management of the Ezze live app, focusing on online shopping and selling. I take great delight in creating portraits that capture the unique stories of different individuals. I savor the California sunshine, adore the beach, and am endlessly grateful for the unwavering support of my parents and friends.
Reflecting upon my journey, I have no regrets. Every decision I made has shaped my life in profound ways. Thanks to my unwavering determination, I find myself here today, and I am eager to see where the future will lead me.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
My journey commences with a childhood passion for art. As a young child, I would spontaneously draw on the walls of my house without hesitation. The act of creating art was a profound love, one that would go on to shape the very fabric of my life.
Throughout my journey, I’ve faced numerous challenges and made significant decisions that have shaped my path. From grappling with career choices during university to navigating the uncertainties of a global pandemic, each obstacle has been met with resilience and determination. These experiences have not only shaped my artistic vision but also strengthened my resolve to pursue my passion despite the odds.
Reflecting upon my journey, one of the most rewarding aspects of being an artist and creative is the ability to express oneself authentically and to connect with others on a deeply emotional level through our work. Art has the incredible power to evoke emotions, spark conversations, and inspire change. Whether it’s through visual art, music, design, or any other medium, the opportunity to touch someone’s heart or mind with our creations is immensely fulfilling.
Moreover, the process of creation itself is incredibly rewarding. There’s a sense of liberation and joy that comes from bringing an idea to life, from seeing a blank canvas transform into a masterpiece or hearing a melody come together in harmony. It’s a journey of exploration, experimentation, and self-discovery that continually challenges and enriches us.
As artists and creatives, we have the privilege of contributing to the cultural landscape, shaping narratives, and influencing perspectives. Whether we’re reflecting the beauty of the world around us, challenging societal norms, or envisioning a brighter future, our work has the power to make a lasting impact on individuals and communities.
Ultimately, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist or creative is the opportunity to share our passion, our vision, and our humanity with the world, leaving a meaningful imprint that transcends time and space.
Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?
Throughout my journey as a creative, I’ve come to realize that there are aspects of this path that may be challenging for non-creatives to fully grasp. One of the key aspects that might be difficult for them to understand is the depth of emotional investment and vulnerability that comes with creating art.
For many creatives, our work is not just a product of technical skill or aesthetic vision; it’s an extension of ourselves, our thoughts, our experiences, and our emotions. Each piece carries a piece of our soul, making it an intensely personal endeavor. This level of emotional investment means that criticism, rejection, or even indifference towards our work can feel deeply personal and sometimes even devastating.
Additionally, the creative process itself can be difficult to comprehend for those who haven’t experienced it firsthand. It’s not simply about sitting down and executing a predefined plan; it’s about wrestling with ideas, grappling with self-doubt, and navigating the messy terrain of experimentation and exploration. The process is often nonlinear and unpredictable, requiring patience, resilience, and a willingness to embrace failure as part of the journey towards growth and innovation.
Furthermore, the lifestyle of a creative can be unconventional and unpredictable, filled with uncertainty and instability. Pursuing a career in the arts often means embracing financial insecurity, sacrificing stability for the sake of creative freedom, and navigating a landscape that values passion and talent but may not always offer tangible rewards or recognition.
Despite these challenges, however, the creative journey is immensely rewarding and fulfilling. It’s a journey of self-discovery, self-expression, and self-actualization, where each obstacle overcome and each breakthrough achieved brings us closer to realizing our fullest potential as artists and human beings.
In shedding light on these aspects of the creative journey, I hope to offer insight and understanding to non-creatives, fostering empathy and appreciation for the unique experiences and struggles faced by those who choose to pursue a life dedicated to creativity and expression.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.qumingyue.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mooner.art?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mingyuequ/