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

Alright, Yuki thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

The most meaningful project I’ve worked on was my artwork for the “Echoes of Intersection” exhibition. This exhibition resonated deeply with me as an Asian American, as it explored themes of identity, belonging, and social justice. My artwork was inspired by my experience attending a play based on a real-life event in 1959 Montgomery, Alabama and my work was showcased in the Honors Art Exhibit at University of South Florida in April 2024.

The play itself was a powerful and moving experience that stayed with me long after the curtain fell. It highlighted the struggles and triumphs of individuals who fought for civil rights during a time of great social upheaval. As an Asian American, I saw parallels between the historical injustices faced by the Black community and the ongoing struggles for equality and representation within my own community.

Inspired by the play, I created a linocut piece that reflected my personal connection to the themes of the exhibition. My piece aimed to capture the emotions and complexities of the human experience, particularly in the context of social and political change. I wanted to convey a sense of hope and resilience, while also acknowledging the pain and suffering that often accompanies progress. Having my artwork featured in the “Echoes of Intersection” exhibition was a deeply meaningful experience and it allowed me to share my perspective and connect with others passionate about social justice. The exhibition provided a platform for diverse voices to be heard, and I was honored to be a part of such an important project.

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 woman, a lesbian, and an Asian artist and photographer, passionate about capturing the beauty and diversity of the human experience. My journey began humbly, vending my artwork at small local markets and friend’s band shows. These early experiences nurtured my love for connecting with people and sharing my creative vision. My medium is printmaking, typically linoleum and screenprinting on various fabrics and paper.

What sets me apart is my unique perspective and my commitment to creating inclusive and empowering imagery. I believe that everyone deserves to have their story told, and I’m dedicated to using my art to amplify marginalized voices. I’m most proud of the connections I’ve made with clients and forming community. I’m also proud of my ability to adapt to different creative challenges and consistently deliver high-quality results.

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

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist and creative is the incredible community I’ve built and the unique opportunities I have been provided. From assisting with a fashion show in San Diego, California to capturing headshots for a startup fashion club called Kouture at USF, I’ve had the privilege of immersing myself in diverse creative worlds.
Additionally, having my writing and photography featured in The Sapphic Sun, a St. Petersburg-based publication, has been a significant milestone. It’s incredibly fulfilling to see my work recognized and shared with a wider audience, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community. These connections and opportunities have not only enriched my artistic journey but also deepened my appreciation for the power of creativity to bring people together and inspire positive change.

Have you ever had to pivot?

During my last year of college was the most monumental period of my life. Having to balance two jobs with school and my art career was difficult. I had to really develop a detailed schedule that allocates specific time slots for schoolwork, work, and art activities and prioritize certain tasks. It was a very stressful time, and I often felt like giving up. The biggest lesson I learned was remembering that balancing school, work, and my art business is a marathon, not a sprint. I had to be patient with myself and celebrate my progress, no matter how small it may seem. Now, I have graduated with two degrees, and I am currently studying for the CPA while I continue my photography work and vending my art at markets!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://yookphotos.mypixieset.com/
• Instagram: @yookphotos @flo.pped
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yukishao/

Image Credits

All artwork is mine @yookarttt