We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Xiyin Wang a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Xiyin, thanks for joining us today. We love asking folks what they would do differently if they were starting today – how they would speed up the process, etc. We’d love to hear how you would set everything up if you were to start from step 1 today.
If I were to start over today as an artist with the knowledge I’ve gained over time, I would take a proactive and confident approach to my journey. First and foremost, I would remind myself to be more self-assured and embrace the ‘fake it till you make it’ mindset. Often, we wait for the perfect moment when we feel completely ready, but in reality, readiness often comes through action. I’d emphasize the importance of consistently showcasing my work, even if I had doubts.
Networking and building connections would be another crucial aspect of my strategy. I would actively seek opportunities to meet fellow artists, mentors, and industry professionals. Building a strong network not only opens doors to collaborations and learning but also provides a support system.
To make informed decisions, I would stress the significance of collecting information. Whether through networking, speaking to experienced artists, or conducting my research, I’d ensure I had a comprehensive understanding of the choices I was making.
Lastly, I would prioritize continuous practice and improvement. Becoming a better artist is an ongoing process, and I’d commit to refining my skills daily. Whether it’s honing specific techniques or exploring new mediums, consistent practice is key to growth.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I’m Xiyin, a passionate concept artist and visual development artist based in Los Angeles. My journey in the world of art began with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Illustration. Since then, I’ve embarked on an exciting artistic adventure, working with prestigious studios such as Activision and EA on undisclosed projects, where I contributed as a concept artist. In addition to my work in the gaming industry, I’ve had the privilege of diving into the realm of animation. I’ve lent my creative vision and character design skills to renowned studios like Nickelodeon and Titmouse, among others. These experiences have not only enriched my artistic abilities but have also fueled my passion for crafting engaging visual narratives.
Any resources you can share with us that might be helpful to other creatives?
In hindsight, I’ve identified two valuable resources that I wish I had known about earlier in my creative journey: industry shows like LightBox Expo and CTN, which provide a vibrant platform for artists to connect, showcase their work, and learn from industry leaders while fostering a sense of community; and mentorship classes offered by industry experts, offering not only skill enhancement but also the opportunity to establish meaningful connections within the field. These resources have proven to be invaluable for artists seeking growth and networking opportunities.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
The most rewarding aspect of being an artist or creative, for me, is the ability to translate the world as I perceive it into visual form. It’s an incredibly gratifying experience to paint my unique perspective, encapsulate my personal narratives, and engage in a form of communication that transcends words. As someone naturally inclined towards introversion, art provides me with a powerful means to connect with people. In essence, being an artist empowers me to bridge the gap between my inner world and the external reality, sharing my emotions, stories, and interpretations in a way that resonates deeply with others.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://xywangart.myportfolio.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/supercarbonate_/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/xiyin-wang-1b0b081a0/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/scxyw
- Other: https://www.behance.net/xywangart