Meet Xiaomeng Zhang | Illustrator

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

Hi Xiaomeng, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
I think the balance between life and work is very delicate. I don’t think a fixed pattern can bring permanent efficiency or a peaceful life. The balance between my life and work is constantly changing, which means that every day brings me different surprises. I need this kind of stimulation to bring me better creativity.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Please tell us more about your art. We’d love to hear what sets you apart and what you’re most proud or excited about. How did you get to where you are today in your career? Has it been easy? If not, how did you overcome challenges? What lessons have you learned along the way? What would you like the world to know about you or your brand and story?

My art reflects the worlds of my imagination, blending elements of fantasy with reality, and I am constantly inspired by film in particular. What sets my work apart is my attention to detail and the emotions I strive to evoke in each piece. My goal is to transport the viewer into the scenes I create and make them feel as if they have entered a different realm, even if only for a moment.

It has been no easy feat to get to where I am today in my career. Like many artists, I’ve faced countless challenges along the way—self-doubt, rejection, and the pressure to follow trends that didn’t align with my vision. I’ve learned to trust my instincts and stick with my style, even if it’s not the popular choice. One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is that success isn’t just about talent; it’s about perseverance and the willingness to keep going, even when the going gets tough.

I am most proud of the moments when my art resonates with others, when someone tells me that my work has inspired them or helped them see the world in a new light. These moments remind me of why I create. Especially when I live in San Francisco, the artists I meet every day allow me to find people who share my passion for art.

As for what I want the world to know about me and my work, it is all infused with my experiences, dreams, and emotions. I want my art to be a source of inspiration and wonder, my journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of staying true to yourself, and I hope to continue to share this message through my work.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I recommend Camel by the sea, which is a small seaside town, but what’s different is that it is full of art. There are many fascinating galleries hidden in the small streets. I once talked to the owner there about why the local art is so different, and his views also fascinated me. At the same time, the seafood there is also very good. You can go to the Fish Hopper restaurant on the Monterey seaside to enjoy the food and enjoy the scenery. It will be a good trip to hang out nearby.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
The Writers and Illustrators of the Future program has played a significant role in my success. I had known about the program before, but it wasn’t until I won the Illustrator of the Year Award that I truly understood the immense value they offer to illustrators. The guidance, support, and resources provided by their dedicated staff have been invaluable, helping me grow as an artist in ways I hadn’t anticipated. I highly recommend all of L. Ron Hubbard’s books; they are a treasure trove of inspiration and wisdom.

Moreover, my girlfriend has been an incredible source of support throughout my journey. Her constant encouragement has pushed me to explore new ideas and to continuously innovate in my work. She believes in me, even when I doubt myself, and that belief has fueled my creativity and drive. Together, these influences have shaped my career, and I’m deeply grateful for their impact.

Website: https://xiaomengzhang.com/

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

Image Credits
Huijing her email is: Huijing0024@gmail.com