Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Zhuo Xiong. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Zhuo Xiong, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?
Life is a freefall. I think it’s true for every single one in the creative industry. But it’s especially true for me.
In late 2015, thousands of kilometers away from my hometown, I graduated from Guangzhou Academy of Fine Arts. My journey to this school was a compromise. I had always dreamt of becoming an artist, but I knew well that pursuing an art career often required substantial family support early on. Therefore, I chose a school in the south of China, a region brimming with job opportunities, and enrolled in a design program that promised immediate employment upon graduation.
That same year marked a profound loss in my life—my mother, the only person who had always cherished me, passed away. Her death brought a stark realization: I had nothing left to lose. It was in this moment of profound loss that I decided to take the biggest risk of my life. While preparing my painting portfolio, I took on a job that had me working until 2 a.m. every day.
Six months later, with enough money saved to cover my first semester’s tuition and living expenses, I received an acceptance letter from the Royal College of Art in the UK. Nearly a decade has passed since then. I now live in New York, where I have gained increasing recognition as an artist. Yet, I understand that the risk I took back then was just the beginning. I will continue to navigate through countless highs and lows: debt, despair, and daring endeavors. Each step forward is a testament to the belief that the biggest risks often lead to the most rewarding journeys.
Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
I believe that the pursuit of my art, and ultimately the significance of my art, is to create a visual language that transcends cultural differences and ideological barriers between the East and the West.
Looking back, are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?
As a child who grew up in a poor, remote area far from the city, I spent too much energy protecting my self-esteem and pride. I was afraid to ask for help. But in reality, as long as you are engaged in activities that align with your ultimate expectations, no matter how small you are starting with, there are always one or two people around you capable of assisting you. However, you cannot wait for others to take the initiative to help. Everyone’s time and energy are luxuries. Therefore, when you have a request, you should articulate it clearly. You will be surprised by the extent of the help you receive.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://zhuoxiong.org
- Instagram: @zhuoxiong_
