We had the good fortune of connecting with Kaiqi Wang and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kaiqi, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
Art has been the driving force that has shaped my life, igniting an unwavering passion since my earliest days. Growing up in a small coal mining town, I discovered solace and joy in the act of creation. Whether I was fashioning dolls from steppe grass near our humble home or painting a face mask for a school play, my creative spark burned brightly. This flame was further nurtured by my father’s love for calligraphy and stamp carving, deepening my innate spirit of creativity.
Despite completing a double bachelor’s degree in business, my heart yearned for the profound fulfillment that art brings. Thus, I took a leap of faith and embarked on a journey to pursue a master’s degree in fashion design. Creating something tangible has become an inherent part of my identity. It is in these moments of artistic expression that I discover true purpose and contentment.

The publication of my makeup designs in numerous esteemed magazines fills me with immense pride. Through reaching a wide audience, my work sparks meaningful conversations within the beauty industry. These publications not only validate my dedication and skill as a makeup artist but also open doors to new opportunities and collaborations.

With each feature in these magazines, I strive to contribute to a broader cultural dialogue on the profound impact of creative makeup. I firmly believe that makeup is more than just a superficial adornment; it is a powerful tool for self-expression, empowerment, and societal reflection. It is my calling and passion to challenge conventional beauty standards, celebrate diversity, and inspire others to embrace their unique identities. Sharing my artistry in prestigious publications reaffirms my artistic journey and fuels my motivation to continuously push boundaries, explore new techniques, and utilize makeup as a catalyst for positive change. For me, art is not merely a passion—it is a calling that nourishes my soul and propels me forward.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
What sets me apart as a makeup artist is my unwavering dedication to pushing the boundaries of creativity in an industry often driven by viral trends. I firmly believe in the transformative power of makeup to go beyond the superficial and evoke genuine emotions, provoke thought, and challenge conventional notions of beauty and aesthetics.
What brings me the greatest pride and excitement is my ability to carve my own unique path and create makeup looks that truly reflect my artistic vision. I find inspiration in the challenge of surpassing the limitations of viral trends and venturing into the realm of true artistic expression. By embracing innovation and sustainability, I strive to craft makeup looks that leave a lasting impact and contribute to a cultural shift towards a deeper and more conscious understanding of beauty.

My professional journey has been filled with challenges, as it is not always easy to navigate an industry driven by fleeting trends and expectations. However, I have overcome these obstacles by staying true to my artistic vision and remaining dedicated to pushing the boundaries of my craft. I have consistently sought opportunities for growth and learning, whether it be through attending workshops, collaborating with other artists, or immersing myself in the latest techniques and trends.

One of the key lessons I have learned along the way is the significance of authenticity. By embracing my unique style and artistic perspective, I have cultivated a distinct voice that sets me apart from others. Additionally, I have come to realize the importance of embracing innovation and sustainability as driving forces in my artistic process.

Moreover, I have learned to embrace challenges as opportunities for personal growth. Each obstacle I encountered has served as a chance to refine my skills, strengthen my resolve, and deepen my passion for my art. Persistence, resilience, and a continuous willingness to evolve have been essential in overcoming the hurdles I faced.

Overall, my art is a reflection of my unwavering commitment to pushing creative boundaries, evoking emotions, and challenging assumptions. By embracing innovation, sustainability, and the transformative power of makeup, I take great pride in contributing to a cultural shift in the industry towards a more profound and conscious understanding of beauty and aesthetics.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting LA, I would ensure they have an unforgettable experience by taking them on a remarkable culinary adventure to explore the authentic Chinese cuisine that the city has to offer. Known for its cultural inclusiveness and diverse range of cuisines, LA has a vibrant food scene, and what truly captivates me is the exceptional Chinese food available here. To tantalize their taste buds, I would enthusiastically recommend a visit to Class 302 Cafe, a renowned restaurant with multiple locations in LA, known for its delectable Taiwanese delicacies.
Stepping into Class 302 Cafe, my friend would be greeted by a nostalgic and charming classroom-themed interior, complete with desks, tables, and a blackboard. The ambiance adds a whimsical touch to the dining experience, setting the stage for an unforgettable meal. I would wholeheartedly suggest that they try the braised pork bento box, a dish that beautifully captures the essence of traditional Taiwanese cuisine and evokes cherished childhood memories. The bento box is artfully presented, showcasing the rich flavors of the braised pork alongside a medley of accompanying side dishes.

In addition to the bento box, I would urge my friend to explore the innovative Italian-Asian fusion offerings at Class 302 Cafe, particularly the Taiwanese sizzling tappan. This unique dish combines the best of both culinary worlds, blending Italian influences with Asian flavors. The sizzling tappan promises a delightful fusion of tastes that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

To conclude the culinary adventure on a sweet and refreshing note, I would recommend indulging in the heavenly shaved snow at Class 302 Cafe. This delightful treat is customizable with a variety of toppings, allowing my friend to create their own perfect combination of flavors. Whether they opt for fresh fruits, sweet syrups, or crunchy toppings, the shaved snow promises a refreshing and satisfying dessert experience.

By embarking on this culinary journey to Class 302 Cafe, my best friend would have the opportunity to savor the authentic flavors of Taiwanese cuisine in an enchanting setting. LA’s cultural diversity and inclusiveness are beautifully showcased through its culinary offerings, and I believe that this experience would truly leave an indelible mark on their visit to the city.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to express my deepest appreciation and admiration for my professor of footwear and accessories design, Damion Le Cappelain. In a time when the focus of the school leaned heavily towards commercial pursuits, this exceptional individual bestowed upon me the invaluable gift of creative freedom. Instead of confining us to predefined paths, he encouraged us to delve deep into our artistic selves and explore uncharted territories.
Under his mentorship, I discovered the courage to push boundaries, experiment fearlessly, and authentically express my unique vision. It was during this transformative period that I embarked on a design journey that would forever shape the trajectory of my path. With his unwavering guidance, I poured my heart and soul into a creation that not only resonated with my own artistic sensibilities but also struck a chord with others.

The culmination of this extraordinary collaboration came when my design garnered international recognition and was honored with prestigious awards. This achievement stands as a testament not only to my personal growth and unwavering dedication but also to the indelible impact of my professor’s mentorship. His unwavering support and unwavering belief in my abilities empowered me to surpass my own expectations and create something truly exceptional.

Website: https://kaiqifashion.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lefthandpath__/

Image Credits
Personal photo: Photographer: Lili Muntean MUA: Kaiqi Wang Image 1: Photographer: Qique Chen MUA: Kaiqi Wang Image 2: Photographer: Lili Muntean MUA: Kaiqi Wang Image 3: Photographer: Seraphlia.T MUA: Kaiqi Wang Image 4: Photographer: Qique Chen MUA: Kaiqi Wang Image 5: Photographer: Lili Muntean MUA: Kaiqi Wang Image 6: Photographer: Seraphlia.T MUA: Kaiqi Wang Image 7: MUA: Kaiqi Wang

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