We recently connected with Qing Wen and have shared our conversation below.

Qing, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Let’s kick things off with your mission – what is it and what’s the story behind why it’s your mission?

In China, the fashion and design world is vibrant and full of potential, with countless young and talented designers pouring their hearts into creating unique pieces. These designs often carry rich cultural influences, blending modern aesthetics with traditional elements. However, within this bustling industry, there’s a darker reality that many of these designers face: widespread copying and imitation.

For years, designers in China have struggled with an unfortunate truth. The moment their designs reach the market, knockoffs begin to appear—cheap imitations that flood the streets and online stores. The original creators, many of whom spend years refining their craft and honing their vision, see their hard work diluted and devalued. It is a heartbreaking cycle. Designers would release collections only to see identical versions sold at a fraction of the price, sometimes even before their official products hit the shelves.

Many of them became discouraged, while others resigned themselves to the harsh reality of their environment. There was little they could do legally, as the protection of intellectual property was a challenge in a market where speed and replication often overshadowed originality. For every designer that made it to the top, hundreds fell through the cracks, their creative potential snuffed out by an industry that rewarded imitation over innovation.

This is where the vision behind QUE began.

QUE’s mission became clear: to create a bridge between these designers and a global audience that values creativity and individuality.

America, with its growing appreciation for diverse and independent designs, seemed like the perfect place to begin. Here, there was a rising demand for originality—people wanted to wear something that told a story, something that wasn’t mass-produced in a factory. QUE saw an opportunity to help these designers break free from the cycle of imitation and bring their work to a place where it could be celebrated and cherished.

One of the key reasons why QUE chose America as the launchpad for its mission was the country’s robust legal framework protecting intellectual property. In the U.S., designers benefit from laws that safeguard their original creations, including copyright, trademark, and patent protections. These laws ensure that once a design is registered, it cannot be legally replicated or sold without the creator’s permission, offering peace of mind to independent designers. For many Chinese designers, whose work had been relentlessly copied in their home country, the American legal system provided a crucial shield, allowing them to showcase their originality without the constant fear of imitation. In America, originality is not only respected but also legally enforced, ensuring that the talent and vision of independent designers are protected and rewarded.

Qing, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

As a graduate student at the Rhode Island School of Design, my journey into the world of art has been one of self-discovery, experimentation, and connection—much like the mission behind QUE. From spending hours doodling in sketchbooks to immersing myself in the cultures of China, Singapore, and the United States, I’ve learned to embrace diverse perspectives and adapt to new experiences. This openness has not only shaped my art but also fueled my desire to explore how creativity can be a powerful voice for those who often go unheard.

At the heart of my work is a deeply personal story, but it also goes beyond that. I believe that art is a bridge—one that allows us to tell our own stories while also uplifting the stories of others, especially those facing challenges or lacking the opportunity to express themselves. This vision aligns with QUE’s mission of amplifying the voices of independent designers from around the world, many of whom struggle with being seen in a market that often rewards mass production over originality. Just as I strive to use my art to connect with people and share meaningful narratives, QUE aims to give designers a platform where their unique creations can be appreciated, protected, and celebrated.

Together, both my personal artistic journey and QUE’s brand story are rooted in the belief that creativity has the power to break boundaries, challenge norms, and offer a voice to those whose stories deserve to be heard. Through QUE, we are not just showcasing fashion or design—we are building a community that values originality, respects the creative process, and honors the cultural richness that comes with each piece. Just as I hope my art invites people to see the world through a different lens, QUE offers a platform where the beauty of independent design can shine, free from the constraints of imitation and mass production.

We’d love to hear about how you met your business partner.

I met my business partner at an investment-sharing event hosted by an investment club. After the event, we ended up talking for about three hours, diving into topics we were both passionate about. As we shared our ideas and aspirations, it became clear that we had a lot in common, especially our interest in supporting creative projects and helping original voices find their place in the market. That initial conversation sparked the beginning of our business partnership, and we’ve been building on that shared vision ever since.

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

For me, the most rewarding aspects of being an artist are twofold: the satisfaction of completing a piece that truly resonates with my vision and the support I receive from others. There’s something deeply fulfilling about seeing an idea come to life, knowing that all the time, effort, and experimentation led to a work that feels meaningful. At the same time, the encouragement and recognition from others—whether it’s from peers, mentors, or the audience—adds another layer of fulfillment. It reminds me that my art connects with people in ways that go beyond my own personal journey.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: qing.wen
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christine-wen-b4732120a

Image Credits

Qing.Wen