We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Muling Shi. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Muling below.

Muling, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Are you happier as a creative? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job? Can you talk to us about how you think through these emotions?

Well, it’s a bit of a mixed bag for me :)

Being a creative can be quite challenging, driving me a bit crazy in both personal and commercial projects. There’s this constant self-doubt that tags along because, let’s face it, there’s never a perfectly flawless art or design piece. Many nights are spent questioning and pushing ourselves.

To be honest, I can hardly picture myself in any other role than being a creative. Unlike some who figure out their dream job early on and set clear plans, I was never one of those, haha! My journey into the creative realm was quite unexpected. At the age of 4, my mom sent me to a dance class, but my dance teacher politely rejected me after witnessing my not-so-great dance moves. Instead, she suggested trying a different class, like watercolor painting right next door. That’s how I stumbled into learning watercolor painting in kindergarten. I didn’t actively “choose” to be a creative; it just kind of happened naturally.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Hello, everyone! I’m Muing Shi, a multimedia art director and designer originally from Chengdu, China, and currently based in Los Angeles. With a background in design media arts, my artistic practice spans motion graphics, animation, VR/AR, games, and interactive experiences.

One of my earliest and most memorable encounters with motion arts dates back to my kindergarten days at the age of 4. During my commute, I stuck my feet into the rear wheel of my mother’s bicycle from the back seat. The outcome was not great—I had to wear slippers for a whole month. When people asked me why, my response was simple: I was captivated by the moving patterns of the wheels. This early eagerness to explore and my passion for motion arts have persisted, accompanying me throughout my academic and professional journey.

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

I aim to muster the courage to express my voice directly. For a considerable time, I hesitated to establish a close connection with my audience. Years ago, my professor pointed out that I was “too nice,” consistently circling without taking a straightforward stand when expressing myself. He emphasized the importance of artists engaging in honest conversations, shedding embarrassment, and avoiding fading into the background. Speaking about oneself is crucial—it’s what sets us apart from millions of other creatives.

I’ll be honest, it’s challenging. The fear of judgment and the nagging doubt about my adequacy often hinder me from fully being myself. Nonetheless, I acknowledge these challenges and am actively working on overcoming them. My mission is to break free from these concerns, speak directly from the heart, and genuinely connect with my audience. It’s a bit nerve-wracking, but my entire creative journey centers around being authentic and establishing a real connection with both the audience and the world:)

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

One of the most rewarding aspects of being an artist or creative, for me, is the ability to express and showcase my unique identity to the world. The creative process allows me to delve into my innermost thoughts, emotions, and perspectives, translating them into tangible forms that I can share with others. This act of self-expression not only fosters a deep sense of personal fulfillment but also serves as a means to connect with my audience on a profound level.

Moreover, the prospect of using art as a powerful tool to amplify my voice and make a significant impact is incredibly exciting. As an artist, I have the ability to communicate complex ideas, challenge societal norms, and evoke emotions through my creations. This potential for influence provides me with a platform to address important issues, provoke thought, and contribute to positive change. The realization that my art can transcend boundaries and resonate with people on a universal level adds a layer of purpose to my creative journey.

In essence, the most rewarding aspect for me is the fusion of self-discovery and the opportunity to be a catalyst for change. The ability to convey my personal narratives while simultaneously contributing to broader conversations within society creates a fulfilling and meaningful artistic experience.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://shimuling.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shimuling/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/muling-shi-b147b5172/